There's a lot we can take away from the works of literature, a lot that we can be inspired from. Stories and literary narratives hold the key to several challenges and have answers to riddling questions.
What's more fascinating is that literature can tell you a thing or two about parenting as well. Fathers especially may face difficulty in dealing with their kids or strengthening their bond with their children. That's when resorting to classic novels may come in handy.
Here are some parenting takeaways from Literature's most memorable fathers.
Mr. Bennet from Pride and Prejudice
Mr. Bennet is a simple man, with not many ambitions, which is why he is also his daughter's favourite parent. In Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, he is characterised as this completely opposite personality from his wife, Mrs. Bennet, who is pushy and extremely demanding. But while you cannot blame her for being how she is, throwing in incessant marriage prospects, Mr. Bennet's approach to parenting, which is supportive and understanding, is something we all applaud and can look up to.
Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird
Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the greatest novels of all time. Its protagonist Atticus Finch is also one of the best father figures in literature. He is a single parent to two children, Jem and Scout. Not only is he loyal, brave and kind, which is what makes his kids look up to him, but he also makes sure to educate his children about social justice, teaching them to stand up against what is right.
Bob Cratchit from A Christmas Carol
Charles Dickens’ character, Bob Cratchit from A Christmas Carol is also one of the best fathers in literature. Even after being exploited by his employer Scrooge, being underpaid and living in an impoverished state, he rises above it all, works hard and saves Christmas for his family.
Arthur Weasley from Harry Potter Series
J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series took over the world by storm, and many continue to be die hard fans. When we talk of literature's best fathers, we therefore cannot overlook Arthur Weasley and his love for his seven young wizard-kids and even Harry Potter. He is protective and can go extraordinary lengths to save his kids from danger.
Johnny Nolan from A Tree Grows in Brooklyn
Johnny Nolan from Betty Smith's A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is certainly an alcoholic, but that does not mean he is a bad father. He loves his wife and children and acknowledges he cannot provide the best for his family. He also understands that the way for his children to escape from the family's poverty is through education and constantly inspires them to dream of better lives.
Jean Valjean from Les Misérables
Jean Valjean is the protagonist in Victor Hugo's Les Misérables, who is a criminal and makes amends to atone for his sins. On his path to redemption, he also adopts a child Cosette, who he loves unconditionally. He rescues her from an abusive family and takes full responsibility for her. That said, while he may have committed several crimes in the past, he hands down proves to be a great father.
