Hooft, Pieter Corneliszoon (1581–1647)

Dutch poet, dramatist, and historian. He wrote lyrical verse of great depth and beauty. The breadth of his European culture is apparent in his fine pastoral play Granida 1605, his tragedies Geeraerdt van Velsen 1612 and Baeto 1626, his successful and witty comedy Warenar 1616, and his monumental (unfinished) Nederlandsche Historien 1555–85 1642–54.

Hooft was born in Amsterdam where his father was for some time burgomaster. He spent over three years travelling in Italy and Germany, and after studying law and history at Leiden University 1606–09, received a highly remunerative appointment from the Prince of Orange.