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The course will begin by looking closely at the affairs of northern India and make some assessment of the difficulties faced by the Sultanate of Delhi, particularly in relation to the continued rivalry against the Rajput states. We will analyse the character of the other regional kingdoms across India by the same period, including the development and expansion of the Gajapati dynasty of east India. We will also continue to assess the significance of the Karnata Empire in the 15th century and its cultural importance. We will also consequently consider why no dynasty was able to create a single continuous hegemony across the subcontinent, despite the continuation of larger states. We will also examine the later evolution of Hinduism and the emergence of Sikhism as a significant phenomenon in the Indian spiritual tradition. We will conclude with a more detailed analysis of the career of Babur of Ferghana, and the earliest foundations of the later Mughal Empire across north India.
Course aim
This course will look at the circumstances of India as it emerged from the Middle Ages in the 15th century. It witnessed the rise of Sikhism, the decline of the Delhi Sultanate and the emergence of the Mughal dynasty's founding figures.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for beginners
- This course is for improvers
- This course is suitable for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Provide key reasons for the emergence of Sikhism
- Outline some important features of the reign of Deva Reya II of the Karnata Empire
- Give at least two reasons for the emergence of the Gajapati dynasty of East India
- Outline key moments in the reign of Babur of Ferghana
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
- You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions
What else do I need to know?
- Nothing else is needed
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
- No pre reading is required but research on the subject on the internet or in the library may be helpful
- India: A History J Keay (Harper Press 2010)
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
Download full course information sheet
