It might be used to create a sense of conflict or drama in the story. The act of spanking can be a very intense moment that can drive the plot forward. For instance, if a girl in a story does something that goes against the family's values, the mother spanking her can be a turning point that leads to the girl's self - reflection and growth. However, this should be done carefully as it can also be a controversial element.
One possible reason could be to reflect historical parenting methods. In the past, spanking was more commonly used as a form of discipline, and stories might include it to show how things were. For example, in some period novels, such a scene might be included to give an accurate portrayal of the era's family dynamics.
Another possible reason is to contrast with the expected role of a caregiver. A landlady is in a position where she should be providing a safe and nurturing environment. By having her spank the children, it goes against this expectation and can be used to show a breakdown in the normal social order. It can also be a device to drive the plot forward, as the children may then try to escape or seek help, which can lead to a series of events that form the rest of the story.
One possible reason could be a lack of understanding and patience. The stepmother might be frustrated with the children not following her rules immediately. Another reason could be her own upbringing. If she was raised in a strict environment where spanking was seen as normal discipline, she might carry that over into her new family situation.
Well, in the stories, it could be that the neighbor women thought they were helping the parents. Maybe the parents were too lenient or not around to discipline the boys immediately. Also, sometimes in a small - town or village setting, there were traditional values about maintaining order. If a boy was causing trouble, like bullying other kids, the neighbor woman might have resorted to spanking to stop the bad behavior right away. But again, this is not acceptable behavior in today's world where we advocate for non - violent and more educational forms of discipline.
In some fictional stories, it might be used to create conflict or character development. The act of spanking by a woman could be a turning point for a boy character. It could make him resentful at first, but then lead to his growth and understanding of right and wrong. It can also show the complex relationship between the characters, like a strict aunt spanking her nephew, which can later lead to a more nuanced relationship as the boy matures.
Often, in traditional tales, women punished boys with spanking to maintain order. In a large family or a school setting, if a boy was being disobedient or causing chaos, spanking by a female figure was thought to be a deterrent. Also, it was sometimes used to uphold the reputation of the family or the institution. For example, if a boy misbehaved in a way that could bring shame, a strict mother or governess might spank him to set an example for others. However, these views are now considered archaic in modern society.
One possible reason could be a lack of understanding of appropriate social behavior. Some boys may not be fully aware of the boundaries in interactions with women. Another reason might be a misguided attempt at humor, but it's a very inappropriate form of humor.
It might be due to a lack of clear rules in their environment. If they are in a place where there are no strict guidelines on proper behavior, they may engage in such actions. Also, they could be trying to get attention in an improper way. For example, if they feel ignored, they might do something outlandish like this to draw focus to themselves.
Some stories might use it to show a character's growth. Maybe the young boy learns from the spanking and becomes a better person. But this is a rather controversial way of showing character development. It's not as acceptable in modern literature as it used to be.
Well, in fictional stories, sometimes it's about the older woman's role in the family or community. If she is in a position of authority, like a matriarch, she might spank boys and girls to maintain order. Maybe the children are being unruly in a family gathering or not doing their chores. Also, it could be related to the cultural setting of the story. In some cultures depicted in fiction, spanking by an older woman was seen as a normal way to correct a child's behavior, especially when the children's own parents were absent or unable to discipline them.
Another reason is disrespect. For example, if a boy talks back rudely to his elders in a story. This is seen as a lack of respect for the family or community values. A spanking can be a traditional form of discipline to correct this behavior and teach the boy to be more polite and respectful. It's like a shock to his system that makes him realize he can't act that way. And often, it's accompanied by a talk about why respect is important so he understands the underlying values.