author
L. A. J. (Leendert Alexander Johannes) Burgersdijk
1828–1900
Best known as the first translator to bring all of Shakespeare into Dutch, this 19th-century scholar helped open the English dramatist’s full world to new readers. He was also trained as a biologist, giving his career an unusual blend of science and literature.
1 Audiobook
De Werken van William Shakespeare Overzicht van Shakespeare's leven en werken
by L. A. J. (Leendert Alexander Johannes) Burgersdijk
About the author
Born in Alphen aan den Rijn on March 11, 1828, Leendert Alexander Johannes Burgersdijk was a Dutch biologist and translator. He died in Apeldoorn on January 15, 1900.
Burgersdijk is especially remembered for a major literary achievement: he was the first person to translate the complete works of William Shakespeare into Dutch, including the plays as well as the lyrical and dramatic poems. That made his work an important bridge between English literature and Dutch-speaking readers.
His combination of scientific training and literary ambition makes him a distinctive figure in 19th-century Dutch culture. Today, he is chiefly associated with his lasting contribution to Shakespeare’s reception in the Netherlands.