What was the significance of Edwin Arnold's book?

It was one of the first works to present the Buddha's life to a Western audience in an accessible and reverent poetic form, sparking a global interest in Buddhism.

Modern Perceptions of Ancient Figures

UPSC Archival Analysis

Exam Year

2010

Evidence Source

Link

ID: HIS_PHI_2010_60 Ref: The Light of Asia by Sir Edwin Arnold

Who among the following is known as the 'Light of Asia'?

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Correct Option: A

Gautama Buddha is known as the 'Light of Asia'. This title was popularized by Sir Edwin Arnold's famous poem about the Buddha's life and teachings.