Portraits of Headmasters and Headmistresses: How is School Authority Depicted in Children’s Literature?

School adventures and settings are deeply intertwined with the history of children's literature, representing a significant legacy. Research typically focuses on portrayals of teachers, the teaching process, and its social, cultural, and political implications, along with the moral values of schooling. However, the representation of school authority, including principals, headmasters, and headmistresses, has received little attention. This study aims to address this gap by examining classic children’s stories from the 19th and 20th centuries and comparing the recurring representational characteristics of headmasters and headmistresses. The findings suggest a gender bias when a woman embodies school leadership and authority.