800-Year-Old Kid's Doodles: A Glimpse into Medieval Childhood

Soviet archaeological excavations unearthed birch bark sketches from medieval Novgorod, circa 1250 CE, created by a schoolboy named Onfim. His whimsical drawings—horses, soldiers, self-portraits—reveal the expressive capabilities of medieval children. Contrasting this are charcoal drawings found in a French iron mine, depicting child miners, a poignant reflection of their harsh reality. These discoveries offer a unique perspective on premodern childhood, highlighting its universality and diverse experiences across time and culture.