Literature of Ancient India pp. 102-109

Why it Matters Map Pp. 102-3 Indian Diversity 82% Hindu 12% Muslim 2% Christian 2% Sikh Other

Historical Highlights Indus Valley Civilization - Most homes had indoor bathrooms and sewer connections - after thriving for many, many years, this advanced civilization mysteriously declined Early Vedic Age Sanskrit – language related to English Late Vedic Age Mahabarata – epic – political, social, religious Ramayana – epic - (same as above)

Historical Highlights, cont. Rise of Buddhism and Jainism - Buddhism founded by Siddhartha Gautama Buddhism – based on ethical behavior and nonviolence (not worshipping gods) Jainism – similar to Buddhism (more strict though) Age of Empires – 1st time India is politically united

People and Society Caste system Brahmans (priests) – considered purest class White clothes Kshatriyas (warriors) red Vaishyas (farmers, merchants, tradespeople yellow Shudras (servants) black Outcastes (untouchables) – considered so unclean that touching them stripped someone of his purity.

Women in Ancient India Male dominated Brides could be as young as 8 Warriors could kidnap a bride/murder family Forbidden to own property Wife could not displease husband, even after his death.

Arts and Culture Literature – tied to religion and moral instruction Epics Religion Hinduism (basically monotheistic) Individual evolves in a cycle of existence (reincarnation). Karma – past actions determine quality of life

Arts and culture, cont. Buddhism –ultimate goal was Nirvana Jainism Nirvana (universal spirit) - enlightenment Reject caste system Jainism Self-denial Non-violence

Arts and Culture Arts and architecture Many depict Hindu gods Paintings lined caves where Buddhist monks worshipped

Connect to Today (pp. 112-113) New Age ideas Yoga and mediation Chess and dice Math and science Nonviolence*** Thoreau, MLK

The development of the epic Stories Nature of epic Features of epic stories (video) Not larger than life hero Characteristics of an epic strategies