Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation
According to Portuguese writer Nuniz, the women in Vijayanagara Empire were expert in which of the following areas? 1. Wrestling 2. Astrology 3. Accounting 4. Soothsaying Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Solution & Analysis
Answer: D
Concept
The Vijayanagara Empire was unique for its time regarding the public roles allowed for women. Unlike many contemporary societies, women here were active in professional, administrative, and even physical combat spheres.Explanation
Fernao Nuniz, a Portuguese chronicler, observed that the King had women specialized as wrestlers, astrologers, and soothsayers. He specifically mentions women 'who write all the accounts of expenses' and those who act as judges, bailiffs, and palace guards.Logical Breakup
Logic 1: Women were not limited to the domestic sphere; they were trained in martial arts like wrestling and sword fighting.
Logic 2: Intellectual roles were also common. Women served as accountants, maintaining records that were cross-checked with outside officials, and were well-versed in music and literature.