1. Patriarchal Structure: Elizabethan society was patriarchal, meaning that men held primary authority and power within families. Fathers were the head of the household and had significant control over their children's lives, including their upbringing, education, and choice of career or marriage.
2. Obedience and Respect: Children were expected to be obedient to their parents and show utmost respect towards them. Disobedience, talking back, or any form of disrespect were considered serious offenses and could result in severe punishment.
3. Lack of Emotional Intimacy: While there were certainly cases of close and loving parent-child relationships, emotional intimacy between parents and children was generally not as prominent as it is in modern times. Emotions were often suppressed in favor of maintaining social decorum and adherence to societal norms.
4. Arranged Marriages: In many cases, parents would arrange their children's marriages without much consideration for their children's personal preferences or desires. Marriages were often seen as a way to strengthen family alliances or secure financial stability, rather than based primarily on love or compatibility.
5. Corporal Punishment: Physical discipline was a common form of punishment for children who misbehaved. Parents and teachers believed that corporal punishment was necessary to instill discipline and obedience in children.
6. Limited Educational Opportunities: While some children from affluent families had access to education, many children, especially from lower social classes, had limited educational opportunities. Education was primarily focused on practical skills and preparing children for their roles in society rather than fostering intellectual curiosity or personal growth.
7. Gender Roles: Gender roles were strictly defined during Shakespeare's time. Boys were raised to be strong, brave, and responsible for providing for their families, while girls were taught to be modest, obedient, and skilled in household duties.
It is important to note that these generalizations may not apply to every family during this period, as there were certainly variations and exceptions. However, the overall social structure and cultural values influenced the dynamics of parent-child relationships in Elizabethan England.