author
L. A. J. (Leendert Alexander Johannes) Burgersdijk
1828–1900
Best remembered as the first translator to bring all of Shakespeare into Dutch, he moved comfortably between science and literature. His career joined the curiosity of a biologist with the patience of a lifelong teacher and scholar.
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
Leendert Alexander Johannes Burgersdijk (1828–1900) was a Dutch biologist, teacher, and translator. He was born in Alphen aan den Rijn on March 11, 1828, and died in Apeldoorn on January 15, 1900.
He studied natural history at Leiden and later taught natural history at the Royal Military Academy in Breda. Alongside his scientific work, he became widely known in Dutch literary history for translating the complete works of William Shakespeare into Dutch, including the poems as well as the plays.
That combination of scientist and man of letters makes Burgersdijk especially interesting today. He is remembered not only for scholarship, but for helping generations of Dutch readers encounter Shakespeare in their own language.