On Feminism and Nationalism (book review)

15. Title :- On Feminism and Nationalism – Kartini’s letters to Stella Zeehandelaar 1899-1903.
By :- Translated & introduction by Joost Cote (Monash Papers on SE Asia No. 60)
Published :-Monash Asia Institute 2005 (150 pages)

Outline :- Purports to be a more complete series of letters than earlier publications, with this selection spanning various parts of her life. Shows Kartinin initially wanted to become a doctor, and settled to becoming one of the first children teachers. She also started the handicraft trade for Dutch tourists in her area. Her life in a traditional closed regal society was stifling, but her father provided her with a Dutch based education at which she excelled. Looks inside her dreams, despairs and frustrations. An emotive insight to the core of much of Java society today.