Full Engagement: Thoroughly explore all materials linked in the module, including the textbook chapter, videos, and articles.
Essay Writing: Write an essay, answering one of the following questions in at least 300 words, structured with an introduction (including a thesis statement), body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Question 1: Many of the objects excavated at Mohenjo Daro and Harappa have confounded exact interpretation. Can you think of alternative explanations or uses for such objects as the seals (figs. 1–6 and 1–7) and the terra-cotta figurines (fig. 1–8) found in abundance at these sites? Do you think we use comparable objects in our daily lives? Reflect on how the material we study is relevant to our lives.
Question 2: The emperor Ashoka commemorated his religious epiphany by placing inscribed pillars with animal capitals at significant locations throughout his kingdom. Are there similarities to other types of memorial monument built in other cultures, such as the Arc de Triomphe in Paris? What form do they take? Do they make use of inscriptions or symbols to express their message? Reflect on how the material we study is relevant to our lives.
Question 3: Compare the depictions of the Buddha and the Jinas to the depiction of divinities in other religions. Do any others celebrate the attainment of wisdom in the same way? Which attributes are valued in other traditions? Reflect on how the material we study is relevant to our lives.