Let us Explore (Page 153) Read the excerpt from Faxian given above (see textbook, page 153) and identify the key features Class 7

Let us Explore (Page 153) Read the excerpt from Faxian given above (see textbook, page 153) and identify the key features Class 7

Read the excerpt from Faxian given above (see textbook, page 153) and identify the key features of the society he describes. Write down your observations and compare your notes with your friends - you might be surprised to see how differently others interpret the same text! Class 7

Answer:

In the excerpt from Faxian's travelogue, several key features of Gupta society are highlighted:

1. Happiness and Prosperity: The people are described as numerous and happy, indicating a thriving society where citizens enjoy a good quality of life.
2. Wealth Distribution: The presence of wealthy merchants (Vaishyas) who contribute to society through charity and healthcare indicates a sense of responsibility among the affluent to care for the less fortunate.
3. Healthcare and Charity: The society provides for the poor, orphans, and sick, with doctors available to treat ailments and ensure that the needy receive food and medicine.
4. Urban Development: The cities are described as the greatest in the region, with well-maintained streets and beautiful homes, reflecting advanced urban planning and architecture. Many people in the city are very wealthy like Vaishya elders and foreign merchants.
5. Civic Responsibility: The emphasis on kindness and righteousness suggests that moral values were important in daily life and community interactions.