Writing through Boyhood in the Long Eighteenth Century: Age, Gender, and Work

During the long eighteenth century, boyhood was constructed in various creative spaces, reflecting the lived experience of young boys. These spaces included children's literature, novels, poetry, medical advice, criminal broadsides, and automaton exhibitions. Boys were subject to the control of their elders and used as tools in the cause of civil society, commerce, and empire. They were considered valuable and expendable due to their gender and youth.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 10 November 2023
Publisher: University of Delaware Press

Rewritten text:

In his groundbreaking work, "Writing through Boyhood in the Long Eighteenth Century," the esteemed scholar delves into the intricate tapestry of boyhood, unraveling its construction across diverse creative spaces that bore witness to the lived experiences of young boys throughout the long eighteenth century. This expansive exploration encompasses not only children's literature but also a wide range of literary genres, including novels, poetry, medical advice, criminal broadsides, and automaton exhibitions. Within these chapters, readers are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of boyhood rituals, such as the transformative journey of breeching, the acquisition of reading and writing skills, and the initiation into the realm of education. Moreover, the book sheds light on the lives of boys who were often marginalized and devalued, such as chimney sweeps and convicted criminals, whose physical labor was deemed their sole purpose and who frequently faced a premature end to their boyhood. These boys, real or imagined, were subjected to the control of their elders and wielded as tools in the pursuit of civil society, commerce, and empire.

What sets this book apart is its compelling argument that boys in the long eighteenth century were a unique form of currency, possessing both value and expendability. Valuable, owing to their gender, boys were seen as future leaders, caregivers, and contributors to society. They were groomed to fulfill societal expectations and were molded into ideal specimens of masculinity. On the other hand, expendable due to their youth, boys were readily exploited and discarded when their usefulness waned. This dynamic highlights the complex interplay between gender, age, and societal expectations, shedding light on the often-unfair treatment of boys throughout history.

Through meticulous research and a keen analytical eye, the author weaves together a rich narrative that offers a profound understanding of boyhood in the long eighteenth century. This book is a valuable contribution to the field of historical studies, providing insights into the social, cultural, and political forces that shaped the lives of young boys and their role in the larger world. It serves as a reminder of the importance of examining the experiences of marginalized groups and challenging the narratives that perpetuate inequality and discrimination.

In conclusion, "Writing through Boyhood in the Long Eighteenth Century" is a groundbreaking work that offers a fresh perspective on the construction of boyhood in the long eighteenth century. Through its exploration of diverse creative spaces and its nuanced analysis of the lives of boys, this book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of history and society. It serves as a call to action, urging us to challenge the narratives that perpetuate gender inequality and work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world for all.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 235 x 156 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644533208