A new approach to children's education quarterly

A new approach to children's education quarterly

The Role of Literary Texts in Strengthening Children’s Identity: A Novel Approach to Educational Pedagogy

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Department of Persian Language and Literature, BA.C., Islamic Azad University, Bandar Abbas, Iran
Abstract
Background and Objective:

Persian classical literature, as a treasury of identity-shaping concepts, plays a significant role in shaping children's character. This study aimed to analyze the impact of adapted books from Shahnameh, Golestan-e Saadi, Kalila and Demna, and Masnavi-e Ma'navi on components of national, moral, individual, social, and mystical identity in children.

Research Method:

This study employs quantitative content analysis to examine the components of identity in 15 adapted literary works derived from Persian classics—Shahnameh, Golestan-e Sa’di, Kalila and Demna, and Masnavi-ye Ma’navi—published in recent decades. The reliability of the coding categories was confirmed using Scott’s pi coefficient (82%). The sample consisted stories selected from 15 Iranian-authored books tailored for children and adolescents. Data were collected via a researcher-developed checklist (including identity indicators) and analyzed using SPSS..

Key Findings:

• Shahnameh was the most influential text in fostering national identity, with an average score of 4.7.

• Kalila and Demna excelled in strengthening moral (score: 4.6) and social identity (4.3).

• Golestan-e Saadi emphasized Persian language and moral identity (4.4).

• Masnavi had the greatest impact on individual (3.8) and mystical identity (3.2).

Conclusion:

Children's literature, by integrating ethical, cultural, and historical teachings, provides a dynamic framework for identity-centered education and can significantly mitigate contemporary identity-related challenges. A strategic combination of adapted stories from Shahnameh, Golestan-e Saadi, Kalila and Demna, and Masnavi in educational curricula can comprehensively address all dimensions of a child's identity. It is recommended that illustrated books with simplified narratives be developed for younger age groups.
Keywords

Subjects


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Volume 7, Issue 3 - Serial Number 25
Autumn 2025
Pages 230-242

  • Receive Date 24 July 2025
  • Revise Date 19 August 2025
  • Accept Date 25 August 2025
  • First Publish Date 25 August 2025
  • Publish Date 22 November 2025