In early modern Europe, various views regarding the role of children in society strongly influenced the way in which these children were raised. Some Europeans believed that through discipline and somewhat harsh treatment, parents could better prepare their children for success. Others saw love and gentleness as the best way to train their children's minds. These changes of opinion were the result of a change of times and circumstances. Attitudes toward children differed among early Europeans and resulted in varying methods of raising children. Those who viewed children as weak and inferior sought to instill stronger characteristics in them through harsh treatment and discipline – “tough love.” The Domostroi, a Russian manual on household management written in the mid-16th century, says that parents who love their children should whip them so that they can become a joy rather than a burden. Those who discipline their children and provide them with a good education will reap the rewards (Document 3). Although in the 16th century Russia was considered “backward” by most of Western Europe, the same disciplinary principle is found in the autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini, an Italian metal sculptor. Cellini recounts a visit to an illegitimate son and how, when he was ready to leave, his son clung to him and began to cry profusely. Rather than comfort his child, Cellini walks away and leaves the boy to cry (Document 4). Similarly, in a letter to his son's governess, the French King Henry IV requested that his young son be regularly whipped. From his own experience, he says “there is nothing in the world that is better for him than this” (Document 8). It is actually true that Henri de Nav... middle of paper ... a child is doomed to failure, whereas an approach that involves strong discipline and harsh treatment can expose a child to suffering more than necessary. (Document 12). The teachings of these philosophers reflect the different views of Europeans regarding the education of children. A variety of different methods regarding child rearing in early modern Europe can be easily identified. Due to the high mortality rate of children, the vision of child education emphasized harsh treatment and punishment in order to strengthen children and effectively correct their mistakes from an early age. In the 17th-18th centuries, during the Age of Enlightenment, ideas were formed about the positive aspects of gentle upbringing of a child. These different approaches were the result of the progression of different ideas and cultural movements, as well as practical experience..