My review of the first four episodes is given at Episode IV.
The second four episodes describe the arrival of Flierefluiter ("Rake"). Flierefluiter is also an outcast, just like Kruik, a tramp, but always cheerful and liked by the men and the not so prudish women. In fact Flierefluiter usually carries a musical instrument in order to cheer up the folks. Somehow he befriends Merijntje, who apparently by upbringing has gained a premature wisdom. Flierefluiter explains that an inner voice compels him to travel about. And when a band of Gypsies visits the little village, Flierefluiter knows and welcomes them, and they organize a festive party. Flierefluiter possesses a certain wisdom, but in spite of his cheerful nature can not be called a good man. It is true that he protects the weak and defenseless. But he also rejoices over the provocation of the evil traits in men. For instance, when a rich gentleman-farmer dies, Flierefluiter incites the greedy heirs at the funeral in such a way, that a massive fight results. These episodes also show the final days of the kind old village priest. His strength dwindles, and this situation puts Flierefluiter up to become his verger. Although these two men share the positive belief in human nature, their different characters lead to continuous disputes. The priest tries to convince Flierefluiter to settle and build something good. Eventually the priest passes away, and Flierefluiter moves on. These episodes show a glimpse of the violence in Merijntjes character, when in rage he destroys the dolls house of a girlfriend. The episodes contain many sour phrases. For instance, Flierefluiter: "Kruik has to serve his time in prison in order to earn his place in heaven". And grandmother Gijsen: "For punishment Merijntje should pray with his knees in his clogs. I had to do so myself, and have not become worse by it".
In the subsequent episodes Merijntje finds yet another older comrade, named Simple Fons. Fons is mentally retarded, and in the mean time Merijntje has matured sufficiently to be his superior. Still Merijntje is not able to completely understand the shortcomings of Fons. The greatest joy for Fons is to run with a wooden stick behind his legs, pretending it is a horse. Unfortunately Fons becomes the victim of an obtuse countrywoman, who abuses his backwardness in order to satisfy her own sexual needs. Fons discovers that "thick women are tasty" and is incapable to control the aroused urges. In the end he rapes another woman, and is transferred to a lunatic asylum. Merijntje is shattered and cries on the grave of the old parish priest. The events invite to reflect again on the attitude of Kruik, and his mental (in)sanity. It also gives an insight into the crooked nature of country life. In many aspects the city life is definitely more civilized.
The second four episodes describe the arrival of Flierefluiter ("Rake"). Flierefluiter is also an outcast, just like Kruik, a tramp, but always cheerful and liked by the men and the not so prudish women. In fact Flierefluiter usually carries a musical instrument in order to cheer up the folks. Somehow he befriends Merijntje, who apparently by upbringing has gained a premature wisdom. Flierefluiter explains that an inner voice compels him to travel about. And when a band of Gypsies visits the little village, Flierefluiter knows and welcomes them, and they organize a festive party. Flierefluiter possesses a certain wisdom, but in spite of his cheerful nature can not be called a good man. It is true that he protects the weak and defenseless. But he also rejoices over the provocation of the evil traits in men. For instance, when a rich gentleman-farmer dies, Flierefluiter incites the greedy heirs at the funeral in such a way, that a massive fight results. These episodes also show the final days of the kind old village priest. His strength dwindles, and this situation puts Flierefluiter up to become his verger. Although these two men share the positive belief in human nature, their different characters lead to continuous disputes. The priest tries to convince Flierefluiter to settle and build something good. Eventually the priest passes away, and Flierefluiter moves on. These episodes show a glimpse of the violence in Merijntjes character, when in rage he destroys the dolls house of a girlfriend. The episodes contain many sour phrases. For instance, Flierefluiter: "Kruik has to serve his time in prison in order to earn his place in heaven". And grandmother Gijsen: "For punishment Merijntje should pray with his knees in his clogs. I had to do so myself, and have not become worse by it".
In the subsequent episodes Merijntje finds yet another older comrade, named Simple Fons. Fons is mentally retarded, and in the mean time Merijntje has matured sufficiently to be his superior. Still Merijntje is not able to completely understand the shortcomings of Fons. The greatest joy for Fons is to run with a wooden stick behind his legs, pretending it is a horse. Unfortunately Fons becomes the victim of an obtuse countrywoman, who abuses his backwardness in order to satisfy her own sexual needs. Fons discovers that "thick women are tasty" and is incapable to control the aroused urges. In the end he rapes another woman, and is transferred to a lunatic asylum. Merijntje is shattered and cries on the grave of the old parish priest. The events invite to reflect again on the attitude of Kruik, and his mental (in)sanity. It also gives an insight into the crooked nature of country life. In many aspects the city life is definitely more civilized.
