The Embarrassment of Riches

Simon Schama delves into the intriguing contradictions of the Dutch nation, examining how it built itself from scratch, achieved remarkable wealth, and struggled with fears of losing happiness. Through a rich collection of historical documents and art, he vividly reconstructs the unique mental landscape of the Dutch people, exploring events from uprisings to cultural practices. The narrative also highlights how the Dutch viewed themselves and how they were perceived by others.