Polin: Studies in Polish Jewry Volume 36: Jewish Childhood in Eastern Europe

Historians have long been interested in childhood and children's roles in society, and recent years have seen the emergence of new perspectives on the study of childhood. This volume applies both approaches to the context of Jewish eastern Europe, exploring topics such as changes in perceptions of childhood and family, medical treatment of children, education, charitable institutions, emotion, gender history, and Polish-Jewish relations. A special section is dedicated to the fate of countless children who experienced traumatizing events from the First World War until after the Holocaust and the Second World War.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 504 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2024
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

Historians have long been intrigued by the transformations in childhood and the evolving roles of children in society, as well as their active participation in shaping their own lives. In recent years, there has been a surge of fresh perspectives on the study of childhood, encompassing historical scholarship, literary and cultural studies, and more. The examination of children's experiences has expanded beyond simply understanding the lives and self-representation of young individuals and their families to delve into the broader historical context. This volume specifically explores these approaches within the context of Jewish Eastern Europe. Historian Gershon Hundert has compellingly argued that delving into the experiences of children and attitudes towards coming of age provides a valuable corrective to our understanding of the Jewish past. This volume serves as a testament to the potential of this approach in exploring a wide range of historical topics. The chapters herein address various aspects, including changes in perceptions of childhood and family, advancements in medical treatment for children, educational developments, and the impact of charitable institutions. Additionally, the book examines studies of emotion, gender history, and Polish-Jewish relations, shedding light on the complex tapestry of Jewish Eastern European history. It is important to note that during the period from the First World War to the aftermath of the Holocaust and the Second World War, countless children faced distressing and traumatic events. Recognizing the gravity of their fate, a special section is dedicated to exploring their experiences and the challenges they faced.

ISBN-13: 9781802070354