Class 12 History - Chapter 3: Kinship, Caste and Class – Early Societies (c. 600 BCE–600 CE)
Explore kinship patterns, caste structures, and class divisions in ancient Indian society (600 BCE–600 CE) in Class 12 History Chapter 3. Based on Dharmashastras, epics, and inscriptions.
Overview
This chapter explores the structure of early Indian society between 600 BCE and 600 CE through the lens of kinship systems, caste hierarchies, and class distinctions. It draws on texts like the Dharmashastras and epics to explain social rules and ideals.
Why This Chapter Matters
Understanding kinship, caste, and class helps in grasping how ancient Indian society was organized and regulated. It shows how norms evolved and how some groups challenged social boundaries.
Real-Life Applications
- Analyzing the role of lineage, inheritance, and marriage in shaping kinship.
- Understanding the evolution and impact of the varna and jati systems.
- Exploring how social mobility and exclusion were addressed in texts and practices.
Skills You Will Learn
- Interpreting ancient texts to understand social norms.
- Critically analyzing the intersection of caste, gender, and class.
- Identifying both continuity and change in social structures over time.
Explore and Test Your Knowledge
Practice Test
Test your knowledge with our practice test.
Scheduled Talent Test
Participate in the weekly talent test for this chapter.
Flashcards
A: Patriliny is a system where property and lineage are traced through the male line.
A: Varna is a four-fold theoretical classification of society, while jati refers to actual, localized social groups with specific occupations and rules.
A: Dharmashastras, the Mahabharata, Buddhist and Jain texts, and inscriptions.
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