Fatherhood is a fundamental aspect of human existence and a central theme in the arts. Yet, depictions of fathers in art have been overshadowed by those of mothers and children. This book explores representations of fathers in visual culture and literature throughout history, from ancient to contemporary times and around the world. It includes a broad definition of fathers, which also covers father figures and metaphorical “fathers.” The portrayal of fathers in art, literature and film has evolved over time, reflecting the changing societal attitudes towards fatherhood. From the early depictions of father figures as providers and protectors, to the more recent portrayals of fathers as involved and nurturing parents, art has explored the complexities and challenges of being a father, while also showcasing the joys and rewards that come with the role.
This will be the definitive look at how fathers have been portrayed in the arts and how that reflects cultural and societal views on fatherhood through history. Through this we will draw out lessons on “how to be a good father” and apply it to parenting today. It is the ideal gift for new fathers, on Father’s Day or following the birth of a first child

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Here’s the definitive look at how fathers have been portrayed in the arts and how that reflects cultural and societal views of what a good father is.
This book explores representations of fathers in visual culture and literature throughout history, from ancient to contemporary times and around the world.

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1. Letters to Two Fathers and Sons
2. Let’s Talk About Fathers
3. Creator
4. Fatherhood According to Art History
5. Destroyer
6. Absent
7. Alpha
8. Confused
9. Contemporary Fatherhood in Visual Media
10. Shared Parenting
11. Virtual (The Father in Our Head)
12. Letters and a Note to End On

Selected Bibliography
Acknowledgements

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Here’s the definitive look at how fathers have been portrayed in the arts and how that reflects cultural and societal views of what a good father is.
This book explores representations of fathers in visual culture and literature throughout history, from ancient to contemporary times and around the world.

Read more
35 full-colour images featuring depictions of fatherhood throughout history

Product details

ISBN
9781538193822
Published
2025-12-11
Publisher
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC; Bloomsbury Academic
Height
254 mm
Width
178 mm
Age
G, 01
Language
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Innbundet

Biographical note

Noah Charney is an art historian by training and is the founding director of the Association for Research into Crimes against Art (ARCA), a non-profit think tank and consultancy group on art crime prevention and solution. He has been written about internationally, including feature articles in the New York Times Magazine, Italy's Ventiquattro, Time Magazine, and has made appearances on National Public Radio, MSNBC, CNBC and ITV television, and many other news outlets. His novel, The Art Thief, was published in 2007 and has sold in sixteen other languages to date.

Miha Mazzini is Slovenian writer with more than 30 published books and translations into 13 languages. He is the father of two children.