Classical India
Fall 2013
Approach and Focus
The development of ancient South Asian history and civilization, from the Stone Age up to 1200 CE (Common Era). No previous exposure is assumed.
Texts and Assignments
Readings are grouped topically, and subgrouped into required and suggested categories. The following required texts are assigned:
- Burjor Avari, India: the Ancient Past (New York: Routledge, 2007)
- Carl Olson, The Different Paths of Buddhism: a Narrative-Historical Introduction
- Miller, Barbara S., tr., The Bhagavad Gita: Krishna’s Counsel in Time of War
- Embree, A., ed., Sources of Indian Tradition, vol. 1
All other readings are available either as a photocopy packet, purchased at Brillig Books (Elliewood Avenue), or on 2-hour reserve in Clemons
Requirements
You may choose one from among the three possible plans, below:
| Plan I | Plan II | Plan III | |||
| Mid-term | 50% | Map exercise* | 20% | Map exercise* | 25% |
| Final | 50% | Mid-term | 40% | Mid-term | 25% |
| Final | 40% | 10-pp. paper or in-class oral report** | 25% | ||
| Final | 25% |
*take-home, unpledged; due two weeks before mid-term
**due on last day of class, in class
