Individualism in Children’s Literature

Place: Online Event Participants: Midad Staff and Distinguished Guests

Zeyneb Serdar

Presenter

Ms. Serdar is a Teaching Assistant at İstanbul 29 Mayıs University. Her research explores the rising influence of individualism within modern Arabic children’s literature.

Key Themes and Discussions

Theme 1: Defining Individualism and Western Foundations

The workshop began with defining individualism as a social outlook emphasizing the importance of the individual.

Historical roots in Western thought (late 18th century).
Its spread into the Arab world through media and literature.
The relationship between individualism, economy, and capitalism.

Theme 2: The Role of Literature in Societal Development

The presentation highlighted the essential role of children's literature in shaping societies by transmitting ideas and values subtly to young readers.

Theme 3: Case Study and Research Analysis

Based on over 200 Arab children's stories analyzed across major publishers, a representative case study was presented.

Case Study Story:

“Faseeh La Yohebbu Ann Yaseeh – The Smart Chick Does Not Want to Crow”

The story clearly illustrated the increasing prominence of individualism in contemporary works.

Conclusion: A noticeable rise in individualistic themes in modern Arabic children's literature.

Conclusion and Engagement

The event concluded with a rich Q&A session and professional feedback, encouraging deeper academic discussion.