The Evolution of Children's Literature

This chapter examines the development of children's literature from the Renaissance to the 18th century, emphasizing the emergence of moral concerns and a dedicated genre for youth. It contrasts educational philosophies on virtue and imagination, advocating for imaginative storytelling over restrictive narratives. Through correspondence between Charles Lamb and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, the chapter highlights the significance of engaging tales in nurturing children's emotional and moral growth, alongside the challenges of teaching complex literature like Shakespeare.