Setting Differently #6: Java

Setting Differently #6: JAVA (700 – 1500 CE)

Setting Differently is a series that helps writers engage in atypical settings, particularly in fantasies. Too often, fantasy books are written based on a medieval European setting, but Setting Differently is here to help expand your mind. I’m a master’s archaeology student with an undergraduate program that focused in Mesoamerican archaeology and East Asia. I’ve done fieldwork in Peru, and my master’s thesis is on Southeast Asia. I can be a resource for any questions you might have.

What are good genres for Java?

Pirates, are you kidding me?! Pirates, pirates, pirates! A wealthy trading empire with connections all over the region and amazing-looking ships? You can’t convince me that this isn’t perfect for pirates! Another good genre would be disaster novels, considering this region has quite a few volcanoes (speculation for why one of the kingdoms fell is a volcanic eruption and Krakatoa is located in this region – you may have heard of it.) I think it’s a very good high-flying, sea adventure setting with plenty of danger and gorgeous, but possibly deadly scenery.

A Brief Overview of Java

I chose to select the Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms of Java ruling from 700-1500 CE. This included the Mataram, Singhasari, Sailendra, Kediri, and Majapahit kingdoms. Java was a central hub for trade across the region – including Southeast Asia, India, and China. Many of the kingdoms of Java were thalassocracies, meaning an empire at sea (they don’t tend to rule the interior of their lands, but rather dominate maritime areas). They were central to the spice trade. If you want to go a bit later after 1500, you can explore the spread of Islam in the region.

Selling points of Java

Check out the model of the boat I included. Pretty awesome, isn’t it? Other than the impressive architecture, the maritime influences are incredible. There was a lot of merchandise and influence flowing through Java from all over. And how many thalassocracies do you see in fiction? Also, there are volcanoes for added danger and Komodo island isn’t too far away from Java. Take advantage of the beautiful tropics of Java for your setting and transport your reader away to somewhere much warmer. They had the martial art of silat during this time. (*whispers*: they also had piggy banks)

Best Settings of Java

Borobudur!!! The largest Buddhist temple in the world! I included four pictures of Borobudur above. Prambanan, Wringin Lawang, and Trowulan. The ocean is a big one!

Important Figures of Java

You want someone handsome, smart, talented, a martial artist, an archer, a fencer, an artist, a musician, a great politician and devout follow of religion? Hayam Wuruk, the king of the Majapahit Empire at its greatest extent. He ascended the throne at 16. Also of note as figures, he had two children – his older daughter with the queen, and a younger son with a concubine. So, the empire began to decline as chaos reigned over whether the daughter’s husband would rule or the illegitimate prince. Drama!

Music to Write Java

Very relaxing Javanese music

Questions about Java?

Java is on the periphery of my studies, so I can field a few questions, but wikipedia is pretty accurate about these kingdoms, so you can find their individual pages.