HIST052 CM - South Asian History: An Introduction

The history of South Asia (modern-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Nepal) includes equal parts of dramatic narrative and controversies in interpretation. Who were the Aryans? Is Emperor Akbar’s popularity as a synthesizer of Hindu-Muslim interests justified? What does Buddhist sculpture tell us of gender relations? How old really is Indian “classical” music and dance? Why did Partition take place? This course will expose us to the rich historical narratives of the area, usually from primary sources, and equally to the complex interpretations of political, social and intellectual questions. The semester will be divided between three periods (Ancient, Medieval and Modern) of South Asian History for convenience.

Offered: Every year

Credit: 1

Course Number: HIST052 CM