GENDER IN CHILDREN'S LITERATURE: THE FREE SPIRIT OF PIPPI LONGSTOCKING

This article discusses the concept of gender in children's literature through Astrid Lindgren's character Pippi Longstocking. Children's literature plays a critical role in children's social, emotional and cognitive development, and the characters presented in this literary genre are an important factor in the reproduction and shaping of gender roles. In traditional children's literature, male and female characters are often portrayed in accordance with certain gender norms, while Pippi Longstocking breaks these molds and offers readers a different perspective. Pippi Longstocking stands out as a strong, independent and original character who challenges traditional gender roles. Pippi's adventures emphasize to child readers the importance of gender equality and individual freedom, while at the same time showing how rich and fulfilling a life outside of social norms can be. Through Pippi's character traits and behavior, the article analyzes the alternative gender roles presented to children and their social implications. This study evaluates the place and importance of Pippi Longstocking in contemporary children's literature and discuss the potential effects of such works on children's perception of gender.

Keywords

Children's Literature, Gender, Pippi Longstocking