Camera Obscura

Camera Obscura

Hildebrand (1814-1903)

Approximate level
C1
Length
161,946 words
Reading time
13 h 30 min
Chapters
35
Language
Dutch
On Project Gutenberg since
2005

This collection of sketches by Hildebrand offers a classic look at nineteenth century Dutch society. The language reflects the formal style of the 1840s, featuring long, complex sentences and a vocabulary that may challenge modern learners. You will encounter detailed descriptions of daily life and social interactions from that era. Because the prose is dense and relies on older grammatical structures, it is a demanding read. It is best suited for those who already have a solid grasp of Dutch grammar.

524 downloads on Project Gutenberg

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Subjects

  • Dutch literature

Questions about this book

What level of Dutch do I need for this book?

The estimate is C1, based on how common the words are and how long the sentences run. It is an approximation, not a test result. With a translation under every sentence you can start one level earlier than you would with a paper copy.

Is this book really free?

Yes. The text is in the public domain and comes from Project Gutenberg, so it costs nothing. In Lingo7 you open the book and read the first page for free; a subscription unlocks the whole library, the audio and the word practice.

How does reading with a translation work?

Lingo7 shows the original sentence and, right under it, the same sentence in your language. Tap a word to see what it means, hear it, and save it for practice. The translation is made while you read, so it works for any book and for 49 languages.

How long does it take to read?

About 13 h 30 min at a native pace, spread over 35 chapters. In a foreign language plan for more: half an hour a day finishes a book of this size in a few weeks.

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Text from Project Gutenberg, public domain.