Abstract
It is generally agreed that old people are not widely admired in our society. This lack of honor undoubtedly has many sources; one source may be attitudes derived from literature assigned in school or selected independently. In this study traditional literature was reviewed for clues to the status of old people at various historical times. Literature included the Bible, some classics, 19th and 20th century plays, poems and novels, and light 20th century fiction. Through time, serious literature appears to have reflected and reinforced values extant in society. Old characters are sparsely represented in all historical periods and women are almost nonexistent. Contrary to popular beliefs about treatment of the aged, 19th and 20th century treatment is kinder than earlier periods. Pedagogical and personal implications of these findings are suggested for educators concerned with older adults.
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