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CS92PROD
Relic and Image: The Archaeology and Social History of Indian Buddhism

ARHA 381
Spring 2009 not offered
Crosslisting: EAST 381, ARCP 380
Course Cluster: Southern Asia Studies

This course investigates the social history and material culture of Indian Buddhism from the 5th century BCE through the period of the Kushan empire. The course begins with the examination of the basic teachings of Buddhism as presented in canonical texts and consideration of the organization and functioning of the early Buddhist community, or sangha. The focus then shifts to the popular practice of Buddhism in early India and the varied forms of interaction between lay and monastic populations. Although canonical texts will be examined, primary emphasis in this segment of the course is given to the archaeology and material culture of Buddhist sites and their associated historical inscriptions. Specific topics to be covered include the cult of the Buddha's relics; pilgrimage to the sites of the Eight Great Events in the Buddha's life; the rise and spread of image worship; and the Buddhist appropriation and reinterpretation of folk religious practices. Key archaeological sites to be studied include the monastic complex at Sanchi, the pilgrimage center at Bodh Gaya (site of the Buddha's enlightenment), the city of Taxila (capital of the Indo-Greek kings and a major educational center), and the rock-cut cave monasteries along the trade routes of western India.

Essential Capabilities: None
Credit: 1 Gen Ed Area Dept: None
Course Format: SeminarGrading Mode: Graded
Level: UGRD Prerequisites: None
Fulfills a Major Requirement for: (ARCP-MN)(ARCP)(ARHA-MN)(ARHA)(ARST)(CEAS-MN)(CEAS)(CEAS-Phil/Reli)(GSAS-MN)(RELI-MN)(RELI)(SAST-MN)

Last Updated on MAR-29-2024
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