Children’s Literature Criticism

Much Romantic-era children’s literature criticism appeared adjacent to or embedded in children’s literature itself, and much of it was written by women who also engaged in other genres. Pedagogy, parenting advice, religion, politics, national, and economic concerns showed up in periodical essays, reviews, introductions, and texts aimed both at children themselves and at those who produced children’s literature. This body of criticism acknowledged the scope and importance of texts for children, young readers themselves, the adults they would become, and the nation to which they belonged. What had grown into a lucrative children’s book industry by this time was also the ground on which educational theories were expounded, as well as territory where debates about citizens and their souls were carried out. High stakes inspired the range and robust nature of this criticism, along with bolstering the authority of the many women who wrote it from across the political spectrum.