Classical India

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to Classical India, particularly focusing on historical figures, events, and cultural elements.

Alexander the Great

Macedonian general who invaded India; initially had unclear ideas about the region.

Indus River

Major river in India; mistakenly thought by Alexander to be a part of the Nile.

Gandhara

Region in the north-west of India, historically significant as part of the Persian satrapy.

Maurya Empire

An ancient Indian empire founded by Chandragupta Maurya, marked by political unity and prominence.

Megasthenes

Greek ambassador who provided valuable accounts of Indian society during the Maurya period.

Chandragupta

Founder of the Maurya Empire, known for usurping the Magadha throne in 321 BC.

Ashoka

Third ruler of the Maurya Empire, known for embracing Buddhism and promoting Dhamma.

Dhamma

Ashoka's precepts promoting universal respect, religious tolerance, and non-violence.

Brahmanical

Relating to Brahmins or the practice of Hinduism centered around Vedic texts.

Buddhism

A religion founded on the teachings of the Buddha; saw significant growth during Ashoka's reign.

Gupta Empire

Preceded by the Maurya Empire, a significant period for art and culture in ancient India.

Caste System

Social stratification in Indian society, deeply rooted in historical practices and beliefs.

Mahayana Buddhism

A branch of Buddhism that emerged, focusing on the worship of the Buddha as a savior.

Kushan Empire

A significant empire that facilitated the spread of Buddhism into Central Asia and China.

Sati

A funeral practice in which a widow self-immolates on her husband's pyre; established during Gupta times.

Krishna

A major avatar of the god Vishnu; his legend offers a model for psychological identification in Hindu devotionalism.

Bhagavadgita

A 700-verse Hindu scripture that is part of the Indian epic Mahabharata, presenting a discourse on duty and righteousness.