Children's literature began to be published on a wide scale in the 17th century.
Early books were primarily didactic, aimed at moral and spiritual education.
Perceptions of Childhood Before the 17th Century
Enlightenment Era (Late 1600s - Early 1800s):
Childhood viewed as a smaller version of adulthood.
No distinction between children and adults; childhood not recognized as a unique phase until the 1800s.
Philosopher John Locke:
Advocated for books specifically written for children in "Some Thoughts Concerning Education."
Early History of Children's Literature
Oral Tradition:
Stories passed down generations; Irish folk tales date back to 400 BCE.
Panchatantra (India) ~200 AD and Aesop's Fables on papyrus ~400 AD.
Ancient Greece and Rome (850 BCE - 407 CE):
No distinction in literature for children; works like Homer and Aesop's Fables served both audiences.
Medieval Period (476 - 1450 CE):
Few entertaining literature pieces; education limited, mostly focused on moral and biblical teachings.
Horn Books: Basic texts containing the alphabet and prayers started appearing in the 1400s.
Renaissance (1450 - 1700)
Invention of the Printing Press:
Johannes Gutenberg's contribution led to increased book production.
Educational Books (1600s - 1800s):
Introduction of courtesy books for young gentlemen.
"Orbis Sensualium Pictus" - The first picture book for children, featured illustrations and aimed to inform rather than indoctrinate.
Changes in Literature Style
Shift from puritanical beliefs to enlightenment ideals; children viewed as blank slates.
Emergence of light-hearted tales, moral fables, and stories originally for adults (e.g., Gulliver's Travels, Robinson Crusoe).
John Newbery: Established the first children's publishing house, influencing children's literature significantly.
Victorian Era (1830 - 1900)
Golden Age of Children's Literature:
Fantasy Stories:
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll (1865)
The Adventures of Pinocchio by Carlo Collodi (1883)
Adventure Stories for Boys:
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson (1883)
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain (1876)
Domestic Stories for Girls:
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott (1868)
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery (1908)
20th Century Onwards (1900 - Present)
Second Golden Age of Children's Literature:
Popular titles include Winnie the Pooh, The Hobbit, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone.
Children's Book Awards Established:
Newbery Medal: Since 1922 for distinguished contributions to American children's literature.
Caldecott Medal: Since 1938 for distinguished American picture books.
Carnegie Medal: Recognizes outstanding children's books since 1936.
Kate Greenaway Medal: Celebrates distinguished illustration in children's books since 1956.
Conclusion
The development of children's literature reflects significant historical, political, and societal influences, marking a transition in how childhood is perceived and represented in literature.