Who were the Sestigers in Afrikaans literature?

The Sestigers were a significant group of writers in Afrikaans literature who emerged in the 1960s. The term refers to the "Sixtyers," representing a departure from the traditional, often nationalist, literary themes that had previously dominated the field.

While earlier movements like the Dertigers (the "Thirtyers" of the 1930s) established new standards for poetry, the Sestigers were notable for exploring more universal themes and, eventually, expressing opposition to the ideology of apartheid.

Prominent figures associated with this movement include:
* Etienne Leroux: A novelist known for his complex, often allegorical works.
* André Brink: A novelist whose writing became increasingly critical of the political status quo.
* Breyten Breytenbach: A poet and writer who became a vocal opponent of the state.

This group played a crucial role in broadening the scope of Afrikaans writing, moving it away from the state-prescribed cultural vision toward a more critical and diverse literary landscape.1