5 Questions
Which writer was not as rigid on the Varna system as the earlier Smriti writers?
Kautilya
How did Kautilya's 'Arthashastra' view the Shudras?
As a non-Aryan community called Malechha
How many classes did Megasthenese state Indian society was divided into?
7
What was the position of women in Mauryan society?
Equal to men
What did Indian sources say about slavery during the Mauryan reign?
Slavery was a recognized institution
Study Notes
Caste System and Social Hierarchy
- Manu, a later Smriti writer, was not as rigid on the Varna system as earlier Smriti writers.
Kautilya's 'Arthashastra'
- Viewed Shudras as a vital part of the economy, recognizing their importance in farming and other occupations.
Megasthenes' Observations
- Stated that Indian society was divided into seven classes.
Women's Position in Mauryan Society
- Women enjoyed a relatively high status, with freedom to participate in various activities, including education and entrepreneurship.
Slavery in Mauryan Reign
- Indian sources suggest that slavery was not widespread during the Mauryan reign, and those who were enslaved were primarily prisoners of war.
Quiz: Understanding Kautilya's Perspective on the Varna System Test your knowledge on Kautilya, also known as Chanakya or Vishnugupta, and his views on the Varna system. Explore how Kautilya's 'Arthashastra' differs from earlier Smriti writers in terms of the treatment of Shudras and the gap between Vaishyas and Shudras. Discover the nuances of Kautilya's perspective on the Aryan and non-A
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