[Solved] Ancient Texts and Remarriage | Manusmriti Prohibition

Which among of the following prohibits remarriage?

[U.P.P.C.S. Prelims 2003]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Social laws in ancient India varied between religious texts (Dharmashastras) and secular/political texts (Arthashastra).

Authentic Source Evidence

The Manusmriti (Chapter 5) strictly outlines the duties of women, emphasizing that a virtuous wife should never even mention the name of another man after her husband's death, effectively prohibiting remarriage.

Analytical Breakdown

Manusmriti (B): The most orthodox Dharmashastra, which rigidified social hierarchies and gender roles.

Arthashastra (D): Kautilya's text is more pragmatic and allows for remarriage and even divorce (Moksha) under specific conditions.

Yagyavalkya (C): While also a Dharmashastra, it is generally considered slightly more liberal than Manu in terms of women's property rights.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What was the concept of 'Niyoga' in Vedic times?"

It was a practice where a childless widow could cohabit with her brother-in-law to produce an heir, a custom Manu later viewed with disfavor.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The prohibition of remarriage in Manusmriti reflects the transition of Indian society towards more rigid patriarchal structures during the early centuries of the Common Era."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Dharmashastra 4