Historical Changes In Childhood - Aries

Question 1

Medieval Times to Nineteenth Century

Social Status

Answer 1

Childhood as a separate status didn’t exist
Children seen as ‘little adults’ and mixed with adults
Given adult responsibilities and roles - no special clothes or toys
Low status, father uninvolved in raising children (patriarchal unit)

Question 2

Medieval Times to Nineteenth Century

Child Labour/Legality

Answer 2

Until mid 19th century, common + accepted
Most children worked, starting around 7, early 19th century most factory workers children under 11
Faced same legal punishments as adults for crime

Question 3

Childhood Post Industrialisation

Social

Answer 3

Social construction of childhood linked to industrialisation
Children began to be seen as innocent + in need of protection + weak/vulnerable - so harsh discipline
Children lack power and are dependent on adults

Question 4

Childhood Post Industrialisation

Child Labour

Answer 4

Restrictions on child labour in mines + factories began

Question 5

Childhood Post Industrialisation

Technological Change

Answer 5

Parents unable to pass on knowledge for work
Literacy and numeracy more important in labour force, lead to compulsory education