Neerlandosentrisme dan Perkembangan Sastra Indonesia: Sebuah Kajian Literatur

The influence of Dutch culture on Indonesian literature, known as Neerlandosentrisme, has been a subject of intense debate and analysis. This phenomenon, characterized by the adoption of Dutch literary conventions, themes, and styles, has left an undeniable mark on the development of Indonesian literature. This essay delves into the complexities of Neerlandosentrisme, exploring its origins, its impact on the evolution of Indonesian literature, and its enduring legacy.

The Roots of Neerlandosentrisme

Neerlandosentrisme emerged as a direct consequence of Dutch colonialism in Indonesia. During the colonial period, Dutch language and culture were imposed upon the Indonesian population, leading to the suppression of indigenous languages and literary traditions. The Dutch educational system, which emphasized Dutch literature and literary theory, further reinforced this cultural dominance. As a result, Indonesian writers, seeking to express themselves and engage with the literary world, found themselves drawn to Dutch literary models.

The Impact of Neerlandosentrisme on Indonesian Literature

The influence of Neerlandosentrisme on Indonesian literature was multifaceted. On the one hand, it provided Indonesian writers with access to a rich literary tradition, exposing them to new genres, styles, and themes. This exposure broadened their literary horizons and fostered innovation in their writing. On the other hand, Neerlandosentrisme also led to a certain degree of cultural alienation, as Indonesian writers struggled to reconcile their own cultural identities with the dominant Dutch literary norms.

The Evolution of Indonesian Literature: Moving Beyond Neerlandosentrisme

The emergence of Indonesian nationalism in the early 20th century marked a turning point in the development of Indonesian literature. Writers began to challenge the dominance of Dutch literary conventions, seeking to create a distinct Indonesian literary identity. This movement, known as the "National Awakening," saw the rise of writers who embraced indigenous themes, languages, and styles.

The Enduring Legacy of Neerlandosentrisme

Despite the efforts to move beyond Neerlandosentrisme, its influence continues to be felt in contemporary Indonesian literature. While the dominance of Dutch literary models has diminished, the legacy of Neerlandosentrisme remains evident in the literary techniques, themes, and perspectives of many Indonesian writers. This enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between colonialism, culture, and literary development.

The impact of Neerlandosentrisme on Indonesian literature is a testament to the enduring influence of colonialism on cultural expression. While it initially provided access to new literary horizons, it also created a sense of cultural alienation. The evolution of Indonesian literature, marked by the rise of nationalism and the embrace of indigenous themes, reflects a gradual shift away from the dominance of Dutch literary conventions. However, the enduring legacy of Neerlandosentrisme continues to shape the landscape of contemporary Indonesian literature, reminding us of the complex interplay between cultural influences and literary development.