A look at India's development from as early as the 3rd millennium and how other nations and civilizations often imposed their rule on India. The primary focus of the paper is on how British rule in India continues to effect modern Indian politics.
3,960 words (approx. 15.8 pages), 6 sources, 2001, $ 107.95
Abstract In this paper the author examines how British rule has made an impact on Indian politics. Making comparison to Abdullah Hussein's characters in "Weary Generations", the author suggests that British rule, in modern Indian politics, continues to be "an unhappy marriage that still is not broken". The second section of the paper discusses political institutions in contemporary India and their relevance, whilst the third section looks at Indian ancient civilization which the author suggests has led to a modern day philosophy of non-violence, religious tolerance. The paper concludes with a look at democracy in India as compared to that in China and Japan.
From the paper:
?The English made many external changes that led to the Indian people's desire and ability to become their own unified country. Although unification may never have happened without the influence of the British, it was the Indians themselves that eventually achieved their unity. The British could not completely unify India.?
Abstract A very involved and thorough examination through both primary and secondary textual sources of the figure of the Goddess within Hindu tradition. A history of Hinduism and the development of its deity plurality is outlined, with specific reference to the many and varied female deities. A more detailed history of the development of goddesses is included, outlining the symbolic and mythical purpose of the female figure to the male figure. The Shakti principle is discussed, along with specific Hindu philosophy as found in the numerous Puranas, or Hindu texts. The importance of the female aspect in life as creator is highlighted specifically in regards to the Tantric tradition. The paper's final conclusion outlines the underlying, two-fold way in which the Goddess has gained theological significance within the Hindu tradition.
From the Paper "Goddesses have been worshipped throughout the world for thousands of years. However unlike most cultures, goddess worship persisted within the Hindu tradition and continued in to modern times using a combination of both traditional and original forms. Today goddesses exist alongside masculine deities as some of the most important figures within the Hindu pantheon. The Hindu tradition itself has not remained unchanged however. What is understood as "Hinduism" today has been the result of a dynamic and ever-changing tradition which continues to evolve and adapt as time progresses. The nature of this spirituality is therefore such that it almost becomes impossible to identify one religion or one tradition that can be truly identified as ?Hindu.? Similarly, the concept of the goddess figure within this tradition has also changed, her theology evolving to reflect the differing stages of the Hindu tradition. As such, the significance of the goddess today does not reflect an accurate account of her historical place within this tradition. To discover the significance of the goddess today an exploration of the development of Hinduism is necessary, as well as an understanding of the transformation the goddess figure underwent from individuated identity to unified "goddess" energy. This will thus lay the foundation for an examination of the two prime theological functions to which the goddess became attached for within the Hindu tradition."
Abstract This paper explains that "Ramayana" mirrors humanity perfectly: each of its main role players, including the monkey-king Hanuman, the King of Birds, Garuda, and even the lowly squirrel that helps Ram build the bridge to Lanka, are embodiments of the human characteristics of goodness. The author points out that this book is an enjoyable read, while sacrificing none of the religious, cultural, or moral aspects of the story. This paper explores the character of Ravana, the demon king, who is the very epitome of evil.
From the Paper "The relationship between Ravana and his brothers is also intriguing. Vibishana was the very antithesis of Ravana. He loved his brother but was also disturbed by what he had done. He counseled his brother to return Sita to Rama. Failing that, he then went over the side of Rama. Vibishana was of tremendous help to the forces of good. He served in many significant ways. He confided in all of Ravana's strengths and weaknesses. In return, he was promised the throne of Lanka. On the other hand, Ravana's second brother Kumbhakarana was endowed with exclusively demonic attributes. Through years of meditation, he had elicited the boon of immortality. The Gods fearing this had caused him to sleep for millennia. Being awakened before his time would be his only Achilles heel."
