Some reflections on ancient Greek attitudes to children as revealed in selected literature of the pre-Christian era
Year: 2010
Type: dissertation
Abstract: This study examines the ancient Greeks’ attitudes to children during the Classical \nand Hellenistic periods. The investigation is limited to literary sources in selected \npre-Christian texts. Problems which might bias interpretation have been noted. \nParent-child relationships, as revealed in literary examples of parental love and \nconcern, are of particular interest. \nHazards affecting survival in early childhood, and factors which influenced attitudes regarding the fetus, abortion, exposure and infanticide are considered. Legal, political \nand socio-economic factors are amongst motivating forces. \nChildhood experiences such as education, sport, pederasty, step-families, slaves and \nslavery, preparation for marriage, and deprivation due to war and environmental factors \nare also examined. \nAncient attitudes to children are compared with modern attitudes to children in similar situations prevailing in Western culture in the 21st century. \nThe findings reveal that basic human behaviour has changed little over the millennia; however, factors influencing attitudes have undergone some change as society evolved.
Author: Diana De Bloemhead
Language: English
Topic: Classical Antiquity Studies
Subfield: Classics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W1550034749