Exploring Indonesian History and Society through Novels: Reads by Indonesian Authors

Indonesia, a country known for its natural landscapes and diverse ethnic groups, is also home to a thriving literary scene. As Indonesia commemorates its 78th Independence Day on 17th August, it is timely to look at a small slice of the rich literary heritage of this vast archipelago, by exploring three classic novels that reflect the unyielding spirit of Indonesian history. Stories of resilience in facing challenges, such as the struggle for freedom during the colonial period, the fight for independence, and the contestation between communists and anti-communists, characterise this spirit. The stories highlighted in these novels mirror the postcolonial era that has shaped the nation today.