author
W. J. (Willem Jacobszoon) Hofdijk
1816–1888
A 19th-century Dutch poet, novelist, and historian, he wrote with a strong feeling for national history and legend. His books helped bring the Dutch past to life for generations of readers.
2 Audiobooks
De Twee Broeders: Een Kennemer Legende uit de jaren 1420-1436
by Cornelis Johannes Kieviet, W. J. (Willem Jacobszoon) Hofdijk
Merkwaardige Kasteelen in Nederland, Deel II (van VI)
by J. van (Jacob) Lennep, W. J. (Willem Jacobszoon) Hofdijk
About the author
Born in Alkmaar on June 27, 1816, Willem Jacobszoon Hofdijk published as W. J. Hofdijk and became known as a Dutch poet and writer. Sources on his life describe him as active across several kinds of writing, including poetry, prose, drama, and historical work.
Hofdijk is especially remembered for writing about Dutch history, old legends, and cultural identity in a way meant for a broad reading public. His name is also linked with works such as Merkwaardige Kasteelen in Nederland, created with Jacob van Lennep, and with historical surveys that helped popularize the story of the Netherlands.
He died in Arnhem on August 29, 1888. Today, he is mainly of interest to readers who enjoy 19th-century historical writing and the development of Dutch literature.