Government The Gupta’s rule was much looser than Maurya rule in that much power was left in the hands of individual villages and of city governments elected by merchants and artisans. The Guptas ruled without corporal punishment and people did not have to pay heavy taxes.

Social Structure of the Gupta Empire Society and Economy The Gupta Economy Social Structure of the Gupta Empire Once the people of India learned of the silk road, they realized they could make a profit by acting as middlemen. For example, Indian traders would by goods from traders coming out of China and sell those goods to traders who were traveling to Rome! The prosperity of Gupta India contributed to a flowering in the arts and learning!

Developed the concept of zero Math and Science Math Science Developed the concept of zero And infinity! The Gupta’s made Major advances in astronomy! They calculated the year to 365.36 days! Amazing! And The Decimal System

They also established free hospitals for the poor! Medicine The Gupta’s were skilled plastic surgeons! Probably better than the ones who worked on these two! They also established free hospitals for the poor!

Writing and Literature One of the most famous plays written at this time was Shakuntala, which tells the moving story of a king who marries the lovely orphan Shakuntala. Under an evil spell, the king forgets his beloved bride. After many plot twists, he finally recovers his memory and is reunited with her! Drama was very popular during the Gupta empire. Look! Its Sanskrit! The classical language of India (Aryans)!

Writing and Literature Society and Economy Describe the social structure of the Gupta Empire. On which religion is this based? Explain how the silk road contributed to India’s prosperity. Government 1. How did the Guptas rule different than the Mauryans? 2. In your opinion, which empire, Maurya or Gupta had a better government? Explain! Math and Science 1. Identify 3 mathematical achievements made by the Gupta Empire. 2. Identify 1 Scientific achievement made by the Gupta Empire. 3. How do these achievements impact the world today? Medicine 1. Describe 2 achievements made by the Gupta Empire in the area of medicine. 2. Explain why you think these were important achievements. Writing and Literature 1. Identify the classical language of Hinduism. 2. Summarize the plot of the play Shakuntala. Close Determine three reasons why or why not you believe the Gupta Empire was a “golden age” in India: 1. 2. 3. The Golden Age of the Gupta Empire