Question

What are the archeological and literary sources of medieval History? Explain with examples.

Answer 1

Instructions:

This answer for this question can be broken down into two parts.

1. First, talk about what an archeological source of history is with examples. (2 ½ mark)
2. Second, talk about what a literary source of history is with examples. (2 ½ mark)

Solution:

Archeological sources of medieval history include

• Inscriptions
• Coins
• Monuments

Inscriptions are writings engraved on solid surfaces like rocks, stones, temple walls and metals. The king’s royal decrees, dedications and donations, monuments raised in commemoration of victories in wars, those built in memory of deceased warriors, Copper-plate grants, are some examples of inscriptions.

Coins are important primary sources of history. They convey the names of kings with their titles and portraits, events, places, dates, dynasties and logos. The composition of metals in the coins gives us information on the economic condition of the empire. Important information on the king's achievements like military conquests, territorial expansion, trade links and religious faith can also be found in the coins.

Monuments of medieval India include temples like Konark, Bhubaneswar mosques like Jama Masjid and Moti Masjid and other structures like Agra fort, Jaipur palace and Qutub Minar.

Literary sources of medieval Indian History include biographies, autobiographies, travelogs, and documents.
The travelers who visited India during the medieval period include Iban Batuta Abdul Razzaq and Al-Beruni. Iban Batuta in his book Kitab-ul-Rihla wrote about the reign of Muhammad Bin Tughlaq. Abdul detailed about the Vijayanagara empire. Al- Beruni also recounted his stay in India through his books.
Paintings and Music are also examples for literary sources. The paintings of medieval India trace the development of art. Tansen was a famous musician among Akbar’s court. All the Mughal rulers except Aurangazep patronized Music. The music of medieval India serves as an example for the fusion of Hindu Muslim cultures