History of Modern South Asia, 1500-1800 (385-1-20)

Instructors

Rajeev Kumar Kinra
847/467-1241
Harris Hall - Room 307

Meeting Info

Harris Hall L06: Mon, Wed 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

When people think of early modern India it it usually the fabled courts of the Mughal Empire, or monuments such as the Taj Mahal, or perhaps romantic portrayals of adventure and derring-do under the British Raj that capture their imagination. But beyond all the glitz and romance, the period from about 1500-1800 was also one of significant transformations in the social, cultural, and political life of the Indian subcontinent. This course will survey some of these developments, begininning with the integration of India's multiple religious, literary, and visual cultures under the Mughal Empire's ideology of "universal civility" (sulh-i kull). This policy included the welcoming of European merchants and missionaries who began arriving in the Indian subcontinent during the 16th century; but as Mughal power waned in the 18th century, it faced challenges not only from former client states and regional kingdoms that sought to fill its shoes, but also from the encounter with Europe, particularly the growing military and economic might of the British. And as the British role in India transitioned from one of mere traders to that of empire-builders with a so-called "civilizing mission," they too would transform the culture and society of India in ways that continue to resonate in South Asian history and cultural memory today.

Learning Objectives

In this course we will hopefully improve our writing, our critical thinking about historical narratives, and our ability to apply those critical thinking skills to a consideration of historical debates in the present day.

Evaluation Method

Short papers during the quarter, and a final essay

Class Attributes

Historical Studies Distro Area

Associated Classes

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