BHIC-131 ( HISTORY OF INDIA FROM THE EARLIEST TIMES UP TO C. 300 C.E ) || ASSIGNMENT SOLUTION 2022-2023 ( English Medium )

IGNOU Mar 7, 2023 0 771 Add to Reading List

BHIC-131 HISTORY OF INDIA FROM THE EARLIEST TIMES UP TO C. 300 C.E ASSIGNMENT SOLUTION ( SOLVED ASSIGNMENT )

BHIC 131: HISTORY OF INDIA FROM THE EARLIEST TIMES UP TO C. 300 C.E

Marks: 100

Note: There are three Sections in the Assignment. You have to answer all questions in the Sections.

Assignment - I

Answer the following in about 500 words each.( Any two)

1) What is a literary source? Evaluate the relevance of Puranas and Sangam literature in the reconstruction of ancient Indian history. ( 20 Marks )

Answer

A literary source refers to a piece of writing or text that provides information about a particular time, event, or culture.
In the context of history, literary sources are a valuable tool for reconstructing the past. Puranas and Sangam literature are two such literary sources that provide valuable insights into ancient Indian history.
The Puranas are a collection of ancient Hindu texts that were written in Sanskrit between the 3rd and 16th centuries CE.
They contain stories, myths, and legends about the gods and goddesses of Hinduism, as well as information about ancient Indian culture, customs, and traditions.
The Puranas are an important literary source for reconstructing ancient Indian history because they provide information about the religious and social beliefs of the people during that time.
For example, the Puranas contain information about the caste system, which was an integral part of ancient Indian society.
Sangam literature, on the other hand, refers to a collection of Tamil-language poems and epics that were written between the 3rd century BCE and the 3rd century CE.
These texts provide a glimpse into the social, political, and cultural life of ancient South India.
The Sangam literature consists of two main categories of works - the Ettuthogai (Eight Anthologies) and the Pattupattu (Ten Idylls).
The Ettuthogai contains poems about love, war, and nature, while the Pattupattu focuses on the lives of heroes and kings.
The relevance of Puranas and Sangam literature in the reconstruction of ancient Indian history can be evaluated based on their contributions to our understanding of various aspects of ancient Indian society.
For example, the Puranas provide information about the political system of ancient India.
They describe the various dynasties that ruled over different parts of the country, their genealogy, and their achievements.
The Puranas also contain information about the economy of ancient India, including trade and commerce.
For example, the Matsya Purana describes the trade routes that existed during that time and the commodities that were traded.
Sangam literature, on the other hand, provides insights into the social and cultural life of ancient South India.
The poems in the Ettuthogai provide information about the customs and rituals of the people, their dress, food, and entertainment.
The Pattupattu, on the other hand, provides information about the political and military history of the region.
For example, the Perumpāṇāṟṟuppaṭai, one of the texts in the Pattupattu, describes the war between the Chera, Chola, and Pandya dynasties and the heroic deeds of the warriors who fought in the war.
it is important to note that the Puranas and Sangam literature have their limitations as historical sources.
For example, they were written several centuries after the events they describe, and they were influenced by the social and cultural norms of the time they were written.
Additionally, these texts were written by members of the elite class and may not provide a complete picture of the lives of the common people.
the Puranas and Sangam literature are valuable literary sources for reconstructing ancient Indian history.
They provide insights into various aspects of ancient Indian society, including politics, religion, culture, and economy.
However, it is important to use these texts alongside other sources, such as archaeological evidence and inscriptions, to get a complete and accurate picture of ancient Indian history.
Furthermore, the Puranas and Sangam literature have been subject to various interpretations and debates among scholars.
Some scholars argue that these texts are not historically accurate and should not be relied upon as a source of information.
Others, however, argue that these texts are valuable sources of information about the social, cultural, and religious beliefs of the people during that time.
Thus, it is important to approach these texts critically and evaluate them based on their merits.
Moreover, the Puranas and Sangam literature have played a significant role in shaping the cultural identity of India.
The stories and myths contained in the Puranas have influenced Hindu art, literature, and philosophy for centuries.
Similarly, the Sangam literature has inspired Tamil poetry and literature for generations.
Thus, these texts are not only valuable historical sources but also an integral part of India's cultural heritage.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in the Puranas and Sangam literature among scholars.
Advances in technology and new methods of analysis have made it possible to extract more information from these texts.
For example, digital humanities tools have been used to analyze the language, themes, and motifs in these texts.
This has led to new insights and discoveries about ancient Indian society.
the Puranas and Sangam literature are important literary sources for reconstructing ancient Indian history.
They provide valuable information about the social, cultural, and religious beliefs of the people during that time.
While these texts have their limitations, they should be approached critically and evaluated based on their merits.
Furthermore, these texts have played a significant role in shaping India's cultural identity and continue to inspire scholars and artists to this day.

2) What do you understand by archaeological excavation? What is the difference between archaeological exploration and excavation ? ( 20 Marks )

Answer

Archaeological excavation is the process of systematically uncovering and recording archaeological remains and artifacts from a site or location.
It involves the use of various tools and techniques to carefully remove layers of soil and sediment to uncover artifacts, structures, and other features of the past.
Archaeological excavation is a crucial part of the process of understanding the human past and provides valuable information about ancient societies, cultures, and environments.
The process of archaeological excavation typically begins with a survey of the site to determine its potential for containing archaeological remains.
This may involve using remote sensing techniques, such as ground-penetrating radar or aerial photography, to map the area and identify any features that may indicate the presence of buried structures or artifacts.
Once a potential site has been identified, the process of excavation can begin.
Archaeological excavation involves the use of a variety of tools and techniques, including shovels, trowels, brushes, and sieves.
The excavation process typically involves removing soil and sediment in layers, with each layer carefully recorded and analyzed for artifacts and other evidence of human activity.
The artifacts and remains uncovered during excavation are then cleaned, cataloged, and analyzed in a laboratory to better understand their significance and the context in which they were found.
Archaeological exploration, on the other hand, involves the process of identifying and surveying potential archaeological sites.
This may involve using remote sensing techniques, such as satellite imagery or ground-penetrating radar, to map the area and identify potential features of interest.
Archaeological exploration may also involve surface surveys, where archaeologists walk the area and look for any evidence of archaeological remains or features.
The primary difference between archaeological exploration and excavation is that exploration involves identifying potential sites and conducting preliminary surveys, while excavation involves the systematic removal and analysis of artifacts and other remains.
In other words, exploration is the initial stage of the archaeological process, while excavation is the process of collecting and analyzing data from an identified site.
While exploration and excavation are distinct processes, they are often used together to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the human past.
Exploration may identify potential sites for excavation, while excavation provides the data and artifacts necessary to interpret and understand the significance of these sites.
archaeological excavation is the process of systematically uncovering and recording archaeological remains and artifacts from a site or location.
It involves the use of various tools and techniques to carefully remove layers of soil and sediment to uncover artifacts, structures, and other features of the past.
Archaeological exploration, on the other hand, involves identifying and surveying potential archaeological sites.
While exploration and excavation are distinct processes, they are often used together to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the human past.

3) Briefly discuss the character of Early Harappan Civilization? Describe the major sites of the early Harappan period. ( 20 Marks )

Answer

The Early Harappan Civilization, also known as the Early Indus Valley Civilization, is the earliest known civilization in the Indian subcontinent.
It existed from approximately 3300 BCE to 2600 BCE and is characterized by the development of agriculture, the use of copper and bronze, and the emergence of urbanization.
The Early Harappan Civilization laid the foundation for the later, more well-known Indus Valley Civilization.
The character of the Early Harappan Civilization is defined by its agricultural practices, which were based on the cultivation of wheat, barley, and other crops.
This allowed for the development of settled communities, which in turn led to the emergence of craft specialization and the production of goods for trade.
Copper and bronze were also used during this period, indicating the emergence of metallurgy and the importance of trade networks.
The major sites of the Early Harappan period include Kot Diji, Amri, and Mehrgarh. Kot Diji is located in the Sindh province of Pakistan and was first excavated in the 1950s.
The site dates to around 2800 BCE and is characterized by its large, rectangular buildings made of mud bricks.
The site also features a citadel and a cemetery, indicating a hierarchical social structure.
The presence of pottery and copper objects suggests that Kot Diji was engaged in trade with other regions.
The Amri site is located in the Sindh province of Pakistan and dates to around 3600 BCE.
It is characterized by its well-planned streets and the use of mud bricks in construction.
Amri was a significant center of trade, as evidenced by the discovery of pottery and other objects from distant regions.
The site also features a large cemetery and evidence of craft specialization, including the production of beads and stone tools.
Mehrgarh is located in Balochistan province of Pakistan and is one of the earliest known farming settlements in South Asia.
It dates back to around 7000 BCE and was inhabited for over 4,000 years.
Mehrgarh is characterized by its well-planned streets and multi-roomed houses made of mud bricks.
The site features evidence of crop cultivation, including wheat and barley, as well as evidence of animal domestication.
Mehrgarh was also engaged in trade, as evidenced by the discovery of objects from distant regions.
the Early Harappan Civilization is characterized by its agricultural practices, the use of copper and bronze, and the emergence of urbanization.
The major sites of the Early Harappan period include Kot Diji, Amri, and Mehrgarh, each of which provides important insights into the development of this early civilization.
The Early Harappan Civilization laid the foundation for the later Indus Valley Civilization, which would become one of the most advanced and prosperous societies of the ancient world.

Assignment - II

Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.

4) Discuss the nature of economy and religion of the early Vedic period. ( 10 Marks )

Answer

The early Vedic period in India is estimated to have lasted from around 1500 BCE to 1000 BCE. During this period, the economy of the region was primarily based on pastoralism and agriculture.
Cattle rearing was a major economic activity, and the Vedic people placed great importance on their cows, which were used for milk, meat, and as a form of currency.
Agriculture was also an important activity, and crops such as barley, rice, and wheat were grown.
The Vedic people were polytheistic, and their religion was based on the worship of a pantheon of gods and goddesses.
They believed in a complex system of rituals and sacrifices to please the gods and ensure good fortune.
The Vedic people also believed in the concept of dharma, which refers to the moral and religious obligations that individuals have to fulfill in their lives.
The religion of the Vedic people was closely tied to their economic activities.
For example, the importance of cows in their economy was reflected in their religious beliefs, and the cow was seen as a sacred animal.
The Vedic people believed that by performing sacrifices and rituals, they could ensure the blessings of the gods and ensure a bountiful harvest and prosperity in their economic activities.
In conclusion, the economy of the early Vedic period in India was primarily based on pastoralism and agriculture, while the religion was characterized by the worship of a pantheon of gods and goddesses and the performance of rituals and sacrifices. The Vedic people believed that their economic prosperity was closely tied to their religious activities and the blessings of the gods.

5) Explain the growth of Buddhism. ( 10 Marks )

Answer

Buddhism originated in ancient India in the 6th century BCE, as a result of the teachings of Siddhartha Gautama, who became known as the Buddha.
Initially, Buddhism was a small movement within Hinduism, but it grew rapidly in popularity and spread throughout Asia over the following centuries.
One of the main reasons for the growth of Buddhism was its emphasis on the cessation of suffering and the attainment of enlightenment through the practice of meditation and ethical behavior.
These teachings were appealing to people from all walks of life, as they offered a path to spiritual fulfillment that did not depend on one's caste or social status.
Another factor that contributed to the growth of Buddhism was the support it received from rulers and merchants.
King Ashoka, in particular, played a significant role in spreading Buddhism throughout his empire, which included much of present-day India and parts of Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Ashoka's patronage of Buddhism led to the construction of numerous Buddhist monuments and monasteries, which helped to establish Buddhism as a major religion in India and beyond.
Buddhism also spread through trade and cultural exchange.
As merchants traveled along the Silk Road and other trade routes, they brought with them Buddhist teachings and practices, which were adopted and adapted by local communities.
This led to the emergence of distinct Buddhist traditions in different regions, such as Theravada Buddhism in Southeast Asia and Mahayana Buddhism in East Asia.
the growth of Buddhism was due to its appeal to people from all walks of life, its support from rulers and merchants, and its spread through trade and cultural exchange.
Today, Buddhism remains a major religion with millions of followers around the world.

6) Describe the administrative machinery of the Maurya Empire. ( 10 Marks )

Answer

The Maurya Empire was one of the largest and most powerful empires in ancient India, and it existed from around 321 BCE to 185 BCE.
The empire was established by Chandragupta Maurya, who was succeeded by his son Bindusara and then his grandson Ashoka.
The Maurya Empire had a well-organized administrative machinery that was crucial to its success.
The Maurya Empire was divided into provinces, or janapadas, which were further divided into districts or vis.
Each district was administered by an officer known as a vispati, who was responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting taxes, and overseeing the administration of justice.
The Mauryan administration was known for its efficient and centralized system of governance.
At the top of the administrative hierarchy was the king, who was assisted by a council of ministers.
The council of ministers included the prime minister, who was responsible for the overall governance of the empire, as well as ministers for finance, justice, and military affairs.
The Mauryan Empire also had a sophisticated system of taxation.
The main sources of revenue were land tax and customs duties, which were collected by local officials and sent to the imperial treasury.
The Mauryan administration also maintained a large army, which was responsible for maintaining the security of the empire.
Another important aspect of the Mauryan administration was its emphasis on law and justice.
The empire had a well-developed legal system, and disputes were settled through a system of courts that included local courts, district courts, and the imperial court.
The Mauryan legal system was known for its emphasis on fairness and impartiality.
In conclusion, the Mauryan Empire had a well-organized and efficient administrative machinery that was crucial to its success.
The empire was divided into provinces and districts, and each district was administered by a local official.
The king was assisted by a council of ministers, and the empire had a sophisticated system of taxation and a well-developed legal system.

Assignment - III

Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.

7) Peninsular India ( 6 Marks )

Answer

Peninsular India refers to the southern part of the Indian subcontinent, comprising the Deccan Plateau and the coastal plains of the Indian Ocean.
The region is characterized by a diverse range of cultures, languages, and ethnic groups, and has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times.

8) Neolithic Culture of Kashmir Valley ( 6 Marks )

Answer

The Neolithic culture of the Kashmir Valley is an ancient culture that emerged around 3000 BCE and lasted until around 2000 BCE.
This culture is characterized by the use of polished stone tools, pottery, and domesticated animals, and is believed to have been influenced by the Indus Valley Civilization.

9) Satavahana Dynasty ( 6 Marks )

Answer

The Satavahana Dynasty was a dynasty that ruled over much of present-day India from the 2nd century BCE to the 2nd century CE.
The dynasty is known for its patronage of Buddhism and the construction of numerous Buddhist monuments and caves.

10) Tamilaham ( 6 Marks )

Answer

Tamilaham is a term used to refer to the region in southern India where the Tamil language and culture developed.
This region is known for its rich literary tradition, including the Sangam literature, which is considered to be one of the earliest and most significant works of Tamil literature.

11) Poetry Organization ( 6 Marks )

Answer

Poetry organization refers to the system of patronage and support for poets and poetry that existed in ancient India.
This system was particularly well-developed in the courts of kings and wealthy patrons, where poets could receive support in the form of food, clothing, and other resources in exchange for their services.
This system played a crucial role in the development and preservation of ancient Indian literature and poetry.

ASK ANY QUESTION BHIC-131 HISTORY OF INDIA FROM THE EARLIEST TIMES UP TO C. 300 C.E ASSIGNMENT SOLUTION CLICK HERE