Presidential Seminars 302 - INDIAN RENAISSANCE & AFTERMATH

The Indian Renaissance in the mid-19th century represented a resurgence of interest in and development of classical Indian culture and learning. It also involved an explosion of new art, political and social movements and philosophy arising from the confluence of indigenous Indian ideas and imports brought by British colonialists and foreign-returned Indians who traveled in the context of the colonial situation. The ferment generated by the renaissance fueled the Indian independence movement and is the context against which contemporary Indian society is constituted. We will examine India?s vast contributions to contemporary world culture against the backdrop of this fascinating period, reading the philosophy, art, theatre, poetry, politics and religious texts this period produced. Prerequisites: at least two intermediate level courses either in philosophy or south Asian history, including Indian history, literature, art, or philosophy. Enrollment limited to 15 juniors and seniors. (E)

Instructor Permission. Limited to juniors, seniors.