Fosterage

Definition

Fosterage is the practice of raising a child by someone other than their biological parents, often for a specific period of time. This arrangement was common in Anglo-Saxon England and played a significant role in shaping social structures and relationships, influencing the dynamics of gender roles and family life during this era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fosterage was often used among noble families to strengthen alliances and ties between clans, as it allowed for the exchange of children to create bonds of loyalty.
2. Children would typically be fostered at a young age, usually between the ages of 7 and 12, and the experience helped to prepare them for their future roles in society.
3. The process of fosterage was seen as beneficial for both the child and the host family, as it provided education, training, and socialization outside their immediate family environment.
4. Gender roles were impacted by fosterage, with boys often being sent to foster with warriors to learn skills related to combat and leadership, while girls might be placed with families that could teach them domestic skills.
5. Fosterage relationships created complex social networks that transcended biological family ties, which were essential for maintaining social cohesion and stability in Anglo-Saxon communities.

Review Questions

• How did fosterage contribute to the social structure within Anglo-Saxon England?
  • Fosterage significantly influenced the social structure by creating alliances between families through the exchange of children. It allowed noble families to strengthen ties, thereby increasing their influence and power within their communities. The practice also enabled children to gain skills and knowledge from different families, contributing to their social development and preparing them for their future roles.
• In what ways did gender roles shape the practices and expectations associated with fosterage in Anglo-Saxon England?
  • Gender roles heavily influenced fosterage practices by dictating the types of skills children learned based on their gender. Boys were often fostered with warriors or skilled men to learn martial prowess and leadership qualities, while girls were placed in environments that emphasized domestic skills and responsibilities. These expectations reinforced traditional gender roles within society and shaped how children were prepared for adulthood.
• Evaluate the impact of fosterage on familial relationships and social networks in Anglo-Saxon England.
  • Fosterage had a profound impact on familial relationships by creating connections that extended beyond biological ties. These relationships often led to new forms of loyalty and obligation among families, facilitating a network of alliances that enhanced social cohesion. The integration of fostered children into different households contributed to a more interconnected society, allowing for greater collaboration among clans and fostering a sense of community that was vital for survival during this period.

Related terms

Kinship: The web of social relationships that form an important part of the lives of most humans in all societies, influencing familial bonds and obligations.

Household: A basic unit of social organization in Anglo-Saxon society, typically consisting of family members and those related through kinship or fosterage.

Patronage: The support and protection provided by a patron, which in the context of fosterage, often involved the relationship between a noble or wealthy family and the fostered child’s family.