A Living Approach to History
By Dr. Shannon Whiteside
What does a living approach to history look like in a Charlotte Mason education? We need to start with where children are at in their relationship with history and think about the best way to engage them and ignite an interest in the people of the past. Mason’s fresh approach was to set aside books that offered only information about the past and replace them with books that let students live in the past, experiencing the sights, sounds, and daily lives of its people. She stated,
“The fatal mistake is in the notion that he must learn 'outlines,' or a baby edition of the whole history of England, or of Rome, just as he must cover the geography of all the world. Let him, on the contrary, linger pleasantly over the history of a single man, a short period, until he thinks the thoughts of that man are at home in the ways of that period.” (Home Education, pp. 281-282).
Historical fiction and biography are wonderful choices to fit this description. Both genres were only beginning to become widely available to children in Mason’s day.
One example of a historical fiction book from the 2025-2026 school year for students in grades 4-6 was Thrown to the Wind by Amanda Cetas. In this story based on true events in the 17th century, nine-year-old Etienne and his family flee France because of religious persecution. I wanted to share feedback from a teacher that shows how historical fiction can make history come alive. When I asked her why she thought historical fiction was a great way to learn history, this was her reply:
“I was not familiar with the Huguenots before this book. Through the story, the students learned about the Huguenots and what was happening in Europe at that time. They especially saw how one’s religious beliefs affected your life and whether you could live freely or stay hidden. They thought it was interesting that the French children had to hide to go to school to learn about their beliefs. It was so engaging that everyone loved it, had amazing narrations, and asked for the second book to be read as a read aloud or read it on their own. They would come into class excited it was world history day. Even this year, some of the names or terms from the book have come up in other ways in history. They even refer back to it when something reminds them of it. It is interesting to see how historical fiction sticks with them, and they have held on to parts of it even the following year.”
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NOTES:
- Armitt Museum and Library: CMI has formalized its partnership with the Armitt Museum and Library, home to the Charlotte Mason archives. For Alveary members, this means continued access to the original programmes, exams, and writings that inform and strengthen the curriculum you use each day. Read more about the partnership.
- Coming November 5: Before we gather to talk about growing independence in lessons, take a few minutes to read the article linked in the event. What stands out? What do you want to talk through together? RSVP in the Hive and add your questions or thoughts to the event comments.
- Nature Readers: We would love to hear from you. If you have been enjoying our new Nature Readers this year, please consider leaving a review on Amazon. We would appreciate your support!
- From the Hive: One Grade 1 mom shared how a Grimm tale led to weaving, geography inspired the colors, and books have sent their family down all kinds of unexpected rabbit trails. Nine weeks in, she’s noticing just how much joy and learning are growing out of their lessons. It made us want to ask: What is bringing you joy in your homeschool right now? Come share with us in the Hive.
Have a wonderful weekend!
