What is Indonesian Literature?

 Indonesian literature refers to the literary works produced within the Indonesian
archipelago, encompassing various languages, themes, and styles.
 While Bahasa Indonesia is the national language and the primary medium for most
contemporary literature, regional languages have also significantly contributed to the literary
landscape.

History of Indonesian Literature

1. Pre-colonial Period

 Early Influences: The earliest forms of Indonesian literature were heavily influenced by the
cultural and religious texts brought to the archipelago by Indian, Chinese, and Arabic traders.
These included Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, which were adapted into
local languages and cultures through performances and puppet shows (wayang).
 Indigenous Traditions: Alongside imported influences, indigenous oral traditions flourished,
including pantun (poetic forms) and folklore. These were transmitted orally and often
performed with music and dance in various ethnic groups, forming a significant part of the
cultural heritage.

2. The Arrival of Islam and the Influence of Islamic Literature

 14th Century Onwards: Islam began spreading in Indonesia around the 14th century,
bringing with it a new set of cultural and literary influences. Islamic literature, including
stories from the Quran and Hadiths, merged with local narratives.
 Development of Islamic Literature: Works such as the "Sejarah Melayu" (The Malay Annals)
and "Hikayat Hang Tuah" blend pre-Islamic and Islamic traditions, showcasing the integration
of these cultures in literature.

3. Colonial Period

 Dutch Colonization: During the Dutch colonial period, the introduction of the printing press
in the 19th century revolutionized literature. Newspapers, novels, and other forms of print
media became vehicles for both colonial propaganda and local expression.
 Ethical Policy and Literature: The Dutch Ethical Policy, which promoted education and
welfare in the early 20th century, inadvertently led to a rise in literacy and the emergence of
a new class of educated Indonesians. This period saw the publication of significant works in
both Dutch and Malay, the lingua franca of the archipelago.
 Balai Pustaka: The colonial government established Balai Pustaka in 1908, a state-owned
publisher that controlled which literary works could be published. This had the dual effect of
standardizing the Indonesian language and restricting anti-colonial sentiment in literature.
4. Independence and National Awakening

 The 1945 Generation (Angkatan '45): The period around the Indonesian declaration of
independence in 1945 saw a surge in nationalistic and revolutionary literature. Authors like
Chairil Anwar, Pramoedya Ananta Toer, and others wrote passionately about identity,
freedom, and human rights.
 Political Turmoil and Literature: The mid-20th century was a turbulent time for Indonesia,
marked by anti-communist purges and the rise and fall of leaders. Literature from this period
reflects the country's intense social and political struggles.

5. Modern Indonesian Literature

 Reformation Era: The fall of Suharto in 1998 marked the beginning of the Reformation era,
leading to a more open and democratic society. This period allowed for greater freedom of
expression, and literature began to explore previously taboo subjects such as corruption,
ethnic tensions, and the role of religion in society.
 Contemporary Themes: Modern Indonesian writers such as Eka Kurniawan, Ayu Utami, and
others use a variety of styles and genres to explore complex themes. Their works often blend
realism with elements of fantasy, mythology, and history, reflecting Indonesia's diverse and
multifaceted culture.

Five Notable Indonesian Authors

Pramoedya Ananta Toer (1925-2006)

 Often considered one of Indonesia's greatest modern writers, Pramoedya's works chronicle
the nation's journey through colonialism, independence, and modernization. His most
famous work, This Earth of Mankind, is the first in the Buru Quartet series, written during his
imprisonment by the Suharto regime. The series explores the birth of nationalism in
Indonesia.

Chairil Anwar (1922-1949)

 A poet from the "Angkatan 45" (Generation of '45), Chairil's work represents the voice of
Indonesian nationalism and existential angst during and after the struggle for independence.
His poem Aku ("I" or "Me") is one of the most famous Indonesian poems and showcases his
individualistic style and rebellion against traditional norms.

Rendra (1935-2009)

 Known as W.S. Rendra or "The Peacock," he was a prominent playwright and poet whose
works often criticized the government and explored themes of political oppression. The
Struggle of the Naga Tribe is one of his well-known plays that reflects on social issues in
Indonesia.

Ayu Utami (b. 1968)

  Her novel Saman was a groundbreaking work when it was published in 1998, discussing
themes of politics, sexuality, and oppression. It became a symbol of the new openness in
Indonesian literature following the fall of Suharto and sparked discussions about feminism
and social freedom.

Andrea Hirata (b. 1967)

 Best known for his novel The Rainbow Troops (Laskar Pelangi), Hirata’s autobiographical
novel has inspired school children across Indonesia and has been a massive commercial
success. The story of hope and resistance against adversity in an impoverished school on the
island of Belitung resonated widely in Indonesia and beyond.

Five Famous Works of Indonesian Literature

This Earth of Mankind (Bumi Manusia) by Pramoedya Ananta Toer

 The first book in Pramoedya's Buru Quartet, it narrates the story of Minke, a young Javanese
intellectual, as he struggles against the injustices of Dutch colonial rule.

Aku by Chairil Anwar

 This poem is one of the most celebrated in Indonesian literature, embodying the spirit of the
generation that fought for and witnessed Indonesia's independence. It showcases Chairil’s
bold, assertive style and existential tone.

Saman by Ayu Utami

 This novel was revolutionary at the time of its publication for its open critique of Indonesian
politics and its candid exploration of sexuality and personal freedom, marking a new era in
Indonesian literature.

The Rainbow Troops (Laskar Pelangi) by Andrea Hirata

 This autobiographical novel is set against the backdrop of a poverty-stricken school in

Belitung and tells a touching story of the students and teachers fighting for education and a
better life. Its popularity led to it being adapted into a successful film and a series of sequels.

Beauty is a Wound (Cantik itu Luka) by Eka Kurniawan

 Combining history, satire, and magical realism, Kurniawan’s novel covers the turbulent
decades of Indonesian history through the life of a beautiful prostitute who rises from the
dead. The book is recognized internationally, contributing to the global interest in Indonesian
literature.