Joost Van den Vondel

Poet

Birthday November 17, 1587

Birth Sign Scorpio

Birthplace Netherlands

DEATH DATE Feb 5, 1679 (91)

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About

A Dutch writer, poet, and dramatist, he is best known for his 1662 epic play, Joannes de Boetgezant, which focuses on the life of John the Baptist. His other dramatic works include Solomon, David Restored, and the Sigh of Adonis.

Before Fame

He converted to Catholicism in 1641 and fought for religious tolerance in his Calvinist Protestant homeland.

Trivia

There is a park in Amsterdam-- Vondelpark-- named in his honor.

Family Life

He wed Mayken de Wolff, with whom he had four children (only two of whom survived infancy).

Associated With

His plays, Adam in Ballingschap and Lucifer, likely inspired John Milton's 1667 masterpiece, Paradise Lost.