Dutch Culture and the Influence of Calvinism - lecture
Wednesday 04 February, 20h00 • Aula Tongersestraat 53 • Dr. H. van der Horst, NUFFIC, Den Haag
Soon after their arrival newcomers in the Netherlands are told, that Dutch culture is impregnated by Calvinism and that this Calvinism is a strict interpretation of Christianity, that frowns on all the lighter sides of life, like drinking, singing and being merry. This even happens in the hedonistic and very catholic city of Maastricht. Is that really the case?
And if so, did it change the Dutch into dour burghers, dividing their lives between their churches and their counting houses? Is there a lighter side to Calvinism, for example? Is it the spoilsport’s religion or also – and maybe at the same time – a machine for emancipation and empowerment?
