Republic of the Philippine
Commission on Higher Education
Region V (Bicol)
Libon Community College
Libon Albay
Name: Leslie Angel P. Gustilo Subject: MC LIT 1
Course/Section: BSEd English 2A Instructor: Maria Nina Banda
I. OBJECTIVES
At the end of the discussion the students should be able to:
a. Identify the key characteristics of the Puritan period, the John Newberry era, and
the Didactic period in children's literature.
b. Compare and contrast the characteristics of children's literature from the three
periods.
c. Create a fictional children's book that accurately reflects the style and
characteristics of one of the three periods.
II. INTRODUCTION
Children's literature has evolved significantly over the centuries, reflecting changes in
societal values, educational philosophies, and the recognition of children's unique needs
and interests. Three key periods in the history of children's literature are the Puritan
Period, the John Newbery Era, and the Didactic Period. Each of these periods brought
unique contributions to the development of literature specifically crafted for young
readers.
III. DISCUSSION
1. Puritan Period: Fairytales, Folktales, and Legends
During the Puritan period, literature was heavily focused on morality and religious
instruction, but stories like fairy tales, folktales, and legends also gained popularity.
These stories often featured magical elements, heroes, and lessons about good and
evil
Example: Cinderella (Fairytale)
The story of Cinderella, where a young girl overcomes hardship and marries a prince
with the help of magical assistance, is one of the most famous fairy tales from this
Republic of the Philippine
Commission on Higher Education
Region V (Bicol)
Libon Community College
Libon Albay
period. While the Puritans often emphasized religious teachings, fairy tales like
Cinderella also offered moral lessons, such as the reward of kindness and patience.
2. John Newberry Era: Children's Books
The John Newberry Era marked a significant turning point in children's literature, as it
was during this time that books were created specifically for children's enjoyment and
education. John Newberry, often called the "father of children's literature," published
books that were fun to read, rather than strictly moral or religious.
Example: The History of Little Goody Two-Shoes
One of the most famous books published by Newberry was The History of Little Goody
Two-Shoes, a story about a poor orphan girl who works hard, becomes a
schoolteacher, and eventually finds success. This was one of the first books written
solely for children, combining entertainment with the idea that hard work and education
lead to success. The book was both enjoyable and instructional but with a lighter, more
engaging tone than the strictly didactic works of earlier periods.
Newberry's work laid the foundation for the idea that children's books should be
enjoyable, fostering a love of reading while still teaching important lessons.
3. Didactic Period: Books for Teaching Children
The Didactic Period focused primarily on creating books with the intention of educating
and instructing children. These books were often serious, aiming to teach children
about proper behavior, moral values, and religious principles.
Example: The Pilgrim's Progress by John Bunyan
While originally written for adults, The Pilgrim's Progress became popular with children
during this period because of its moral lessons and allegorical style. The story follows
Christian, a man on a journey to the Celestial City, representing the spiritual journey of a
believer. The book aimed to teach children about faith, patience, and righteousness in a
serious, instructive way.
Example: The New England Primer
a textbook used by children in early American schools. It was filled with alphabet
lessons, prayers, and moral teachings, all designed to instill religious and ethical values
Republic of the Philippine
Commission on Higher Education
Region V (Bicol)
Libon Community College
Libon Albay
in young readers. The Primer was highly didactic, focusing on discipline and education
in a strict, straightforward manner.
The Didactic Period emphasized teaching over entertainment, but it established the idea
that literature could be used as a formal tool to guide children's moral and intellectual
development.
IV. CONCLUSION
The evolution of children's literature reflects the dynamic interplay between cultural
values, educational philosophies, and the growing recognition of the importance of
catering to children's unique needs and interests. From the moral and religious tales of
the Puritan period to the pioneering works of John Newbery that combined education
with entertainment, and the didactic texts designed to instruct and guide young minds,
each period has contributed significantly to shaping the landscape of literature for young
readers.
As we look back at the rich history of children's literature, we can appreciate the diverse
ways in which stories have been used to educate, inspire, and entertain generations of
young readers. The legacy of these literary periods continues to influence the books we
read to children today, ensuring that literature remains a vital part of childhood
education and development.
