Philippe Aries

Philippe Ariès was a French historian known for his work on the history of childhood and family life. His influential book, "Centuries of Childhood," posits that the concept of childhood as a distinct phase of life developed over time, particularly emerging in the 17th century. Ariès argued that societal views on children and their upbringing evolved, reflecting shifting cultural and social norms. His research has profoundly impacted how we understand the historical context of family structures and the roles of children in various societies, emphasizing that our perceptions of childhood are not static but have developed through history.