Orphans and foundlings in Malta, 1800-1880

Abstract

Those groups of individuals, whose lives have been historically characterised as a series of hardships, have long captured the attention of different authors. Indeed, many have showed compassion towards the misfortune of others. Some chose literature to narrate contemporary heartbreaking realities in fiction. Charles Dickens did it with Oliver; Victor Hugo with Fantine and Cosette, while Emile Zola chose Nana and portrayed her in the consequences of her parents' adversities. Others opted for more tangible means as philanthropy, to perform charitable acts with the neediest of people, the latter including the poor, the infirm, the aged and even the incarcerated. The work of such patrons has often been inspired by religiosity and undeniably, many were those who complemented the work of the Church within religious orders, if not individually. By the nineteenth century, a number of States started to play a very domineering role, coinciding with the idea behind welfare. It is for these reasons that during this time, government charitable institutions began to grow out of utilitarian philosophies which saw the State as the main actor in assuring 'goodness' among its subjects. Amid all the pitiable souls were however unprotected children: those who had lost one or both parents and those who had been abandoned by their very own parents. Being probably the most silent out of all those who were in need, many individuals spoke in their favour especially during the late eighteenth century and after, urging the State to come in and provide for their common wellbeing. This thesis is an attempt to start explaining the nature of government foundling homes and orphanages in Malta during the period between 1800 and 1880. I was encouraged to write about this subject because of my deep concern for those who are helpless in face of life's circumstances. Being among the most vulnerable social beings, it is very interesting to see why orphans and foundlings had to benefit from State aid. As an exercise in social history, this work aims to recognise the relationship between the structure of the child population and Maltese society, thereby signifying that although this institution was enclosed, it was not cut-off from the larger goings-on in society. Behind every admission, the culture of general poverty and inopportune situations are disclosed, explaining the possible reasons why these children had to part with their relatives and friends. When these infants stepped foot in the orphanages, they started to live by righteous rules, which allowed them to have a decent childhood together with other children who doubtlessly shared similar experiences.