Percakapan Erasmus

Author: Erasmus (translated by H.B. Jassin)

Category: Nonfiction, philosophy

Language: Indonesia

Publication Year: 1985

Pages: 246

Description:

"Percakapan Erasmus" is a series of satirical dialogues that critique the social, religious, and political behaviors of his time. Written originally in 1518, the book humorously exposes the hypocrisy of clergy and nobility, using sharp wit to question common practices. Erasmus tackles themes like war, religion, and even marriage, making the work timeless in its exploration of human folly.

The Indonesian translation, though outdated in some ways, brings this classic to a wider audience, with H.B. Jassin's rendition offering readers an insightful yet humorous reflection on the human condition.

Desiderius Erasmus Roterodamus (1466–1536), known as Erasmus of Rotterdam, was a Dutch Renaissance humanist, Catholic priest, social critic, teacher, and theologian. Renowned as "Prince of the Humanists," Erasmus wrote in pure Latin and produced significant works, including new Latin and Greek editions of the New Testament. His writings, such as "On Free Will," "The Praise of Folly," and "Handbook of a Christian Knight," were influential during the Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Erasmus lived during a time of significant religious upheaval in Europe.

Despite his criticism of the Catholic Church's abuses and his calls for reform, he distanced himself from Martin Luther and Melanchthon, maintaining his allegiance to the pope and traditional Catholic doctrines, including free will. This middle-road stance, advocating for internal church reform while respecting traditional faith, disappointed many on both sides of the religious divide.

Erasmus died suddenly in Basel in 1536 and was buried in the Basel Minster. A bronze statue was erected in his birthplace in 1622 to honor his legacy.

Personal Notes:

"Percakapan Erasmus" (The Erasmus Conversations) was the first book I bought with my own pocket money saved up. At that time, I was still in high school. This book, which cost Rp. 1,500, was a treasure beyond compare for me. Although I hardly remember the book's contents, I still recall how it helped me think logically, engage in dialogue, question everything, and most importantly, introduce me to philosophy.