Abstract

This talk looks at what Classical Reception Studies (the study of the transmission and reception of classical antiquity) has to offer the study of children’s literature. I will consider ways that representations of classical antiquity (its literature, tropes, topoi and genres) contribute to ideas about childhood and youth, and to the formation of character in novels for young readers. The talk will refer to a range of children’s novels and stories from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, including school stories, domestic fiction, and fantasy.

Bio

Elizabeth Hale teaches children’s literature and media, and creative writing at the University of New England, in Australia. Her research is interdisciplinary,incorporating classical reception studies, gender studies, and childhood studies. She is working on a book, ‘Parables of Talent in Children’s Novels: from Tom Brown to Pollyanna,’ which explores changing formulations of talent and genius in children’s literature.

All welcome!