In de early 1970s, Dutch television viewers were introduced to the beloved character Marleen in the TV series “De kleine waarheid.” Played by actress Willeke van Ammelrooy, Marleen quickly captured the hearts of audiences with her charm and charisma. But what many viewers may not know is that Marleen’s last name in the series was inspired by Jan Mens’ eponymous trilogy.
Jan Mens was a renowned Dutch author best known for his trilogy “De kleine waarheid,” which was published between 1960 and 1964. The trilogy follows the life of Marleen Spaargaren, a young woman who faces numerous challenges and struggles in her personal and professional life. The character of Marleen is a strong and independent woman who defies societal expectations and fights for her own happiness.
When the TV series adaptation of “De kleine waarheid” was being developed in the early 1970s, the producers decided to pay homage to Jan Mens by naming the main character Marleen after the protagonist of his trilogy. This decision not only honored the author’s work but also added depth and meaning to the character of Marleen in the TV series.
In the TV series, Marleen is portrayed as a determined and resilient woman who faces adversity with grace and courage. Her last name, which is never explicitly mentioned in the show, serves as a subtle nod to Jan Mens’ literary creation and the themes of strength and resilience that are central to the trilogy.
Willeke van Ammelrooy’s portrayal of Marleen in the TV series captured the essence of the character from Jan Mens’ trilogy, bringing her to life on the small screen and endearing her to audiences across the Netherlands. The character of Marleen in “De kleine waarheid” continues to be remembered and cherished by fans of the show, thanks in part to the connection to Jan Mens’ timeless work.
Overall, the inclusion of Marleen’s last name from Jan Mens’ trilogy in the TV series “De kleine waarheid” is a testament to the enduring impact of the author’s writing and the power of storytelling to inspire and connect people across generations. The character of Marleen, whether in literature or on screen, remains a symbol of strength, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit.