De kleine honigdieven 1828 - 1937

Oehmigke & Riemschnieder created "De kleine honigdieven," a comic strip with themes of childhood mischief and moral consequences. The visuals and narrative offer a glimpse into the social values and expectations of its time. It reflects a period when children’s literature often served didactic purposes, aiming to instill virtues and warn against misbehavior. While seemingly light-hearted, the comic touches on issues of class and social standing. The portrayal of the children and their interactions with authority figures such as parents and doctors, speaks to the existing power dynamics within the family and community. It’s interesting to consider how the narrative reinforces certain stereotypes about childhood innocence and deviance. The children's escapades and subsequent punishment highlight the societal expectations placed on young boys, specifically in relation to obedience, and the consequences of straying from established norms. The emotional arc, from playful curiosity to regret and reconciliation, invites viewers to reflect on their own childhood experiences.