Social Limitations of the Golden Age
Status of Women During the Gupta Period: Myth vs Reality
The statement that women's status was redefined with education and property rights is incorrect. In fact, their social status declined during the Gupta period, with increasing restrictions on their independence.
Primary Reference: NCERT Class XII - Themes in Indian History Part 1
Archived:
Updated:
Exam Year
2017
Evidence Source
Link ↗Which one of the following statements about the Gupta period in Indian history is not correct?
[CDS 2017 (II)]
Detailed Solution & Historical Context
Concept
While the Gupta period excelled in art and science, it also saw a consolidation of rigid social hierarchies and a decline in the public status of women.
Authentic Source Evidence
Statement B is incorrect. In reality, the status of women declined during the Gupta era. They were generally assigned secondary roles, faced restrictions on education and rituals, and rarely held property rights (except for Stridhana). Child marriage also began to become more prevalent.
Analytical Breakdown
Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic
"Did women have property rights in the Gupta era?"
Women generally did not have property rights, though they had limited control over 'Stridhana' (gifts given at the time of marriage).
Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip
"The Gupta period illustrates that a cultural 'Golden Age' can coexist with a regression in social mobility and gender equality."
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