GENDER PERSPECTIVE OF UNDERSTANDING LITERARY TEXTS BY PRE-SCHOOL CHILDREN – ECHOES OF PATRIARCHY IN THE MODERN AGE

Abstract

In this study, we examined children’s perspectives on gender equality. We presented two types of upbringing (patriarchal and modern) through literary works. Two contrasting literary works were read to the children on this topic: “Biberče,” a Serbian folk fairy tale rooted in a patriarchal order, and “The Princess in the Paper Bag,” an artistic fairy tale that problematizes certain stereotypical viewpoints from a feminist perspective. The works were read to the children at separate time intervals, followed by discussions. The results obtained led to the conclusion that children tend to create gender divisions in the roles of characters in literary works. They expect male characters to have more pride and honor than women, with women being expected to give more chances and forgiveness, while men are portrayed as stubborn and self-centered. Additionally, it was observed that men are inclined towards combat and heroism, while women tend to be passive. On the other hand, both boys and girls express fear of punishment equally. Boys remain silent and fight on their own to avoid punishment, while girls tell the truth and seek a savior in that regard. Also, of significance is that both girls and boys notice but do qualify female passivity in family relationships and neglect in traditional literary works as a problem, and they primarily perceive the change in the position of women and men in modern fairy tales. Based on children’s preferences for fairy tales, it can be argued that for them, a hero is someone who saves and fights for others.