1.

Discuss the political, economic and social life of the people as represented in the Mahabharata.

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Solution :Mahabharata is the greatest epic of ancient Indian History. Although it.s the story of the two warring cousins, the Kauravas and the Pandavas, but it throws a light on the contemporary political, social and economic life also.
(A) Political Life:
(i) Many large empire came into prominence or emerged during this era. Some of the vast and POWERFUL empire during this time were the Panchala, Kosala, Kuru and Pandus.
(ii) The king occupied the highest position in the society. All the powers of the empire were vested in his hand. There was no restriction on his power. He had council of minister to assist him. To act or not to act on his advice depended on his will.
(iii) The king lived in very beautiful palace. He adopted many title. The king performed Ashvamedha yajna to become Chakravarti king. All the powers of the empire RESTS in his hands, but there were shortcoming in his character. Drinking liquor and gambling were parts of their character.
(B) Economic Life:
(i) Land was very fertile, hence agriculture was the main occupation of the people. It is believed that even the king used to plough the land.
(ii) Beside agriculture, animal rearing was the main occupation of the people.
(iii) Trade also flourish during this age. It was controlled by trading guilds, who were GIVEN many FACILITIES by the state. (iv) People also practise other occupation like carpenter, jeweller, potter, ironsmith, crafts, etc.
(C) Social Life:
(i) At this time society was divided into four varnas. These varnas were the Brahmans, Kshatriya, Vaishya and Shudra. Among them Brahmans occupied the highest rank in the society.
(ii) Women occupied the respectable position in the society. They have the right to choose their husbands. The royal Princesses CHOSE their husbands through Swayamber.
(iii) Mahabharata was the age of bravery. Dying in the battle field was considered as a symbol of prestige. Protection of the weaker section was also considered important.


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