Colonialism

Colonialism is a theme common in many works set in areas that were colonized. In this novel, the specific effects of colonialism by the Dutch on the Indies island of Java are explored. The novel begins with homage to the newly crowned queen of Holland and depicts island natives celebrating her coronation, leading to an initial impression that all is well in this Dutch colony. However throughout the novel, tensions are displayed between the colonizers and the natives. Ultimately, it shows the lack of basic human rights that were given to the colonized and how little control they have within their own country. Annelies, a native Javanese, is forced by Dutch courts to lose her inheritance and be deported to the Netherlands by her stepbrother. This epitomizes the dark side of colonialism.

Education

Education is a major theme of this novel. The best way to be educated is...