Question

Compare the position of women in the Early and Later Vedic period.

Answer 1

Answer:

Early Vedic Period [EVP]

Later Vedic Period [LVP]  

[In EVP]The caste system was flexible and based on profession rather than birth WHEREAS, [In LVP]The caste system became more rigid in this period with birth being the main criteria  

[In EVP] There was no concept of Shudra or untouchables WHEREAS, [In LVP] Shudras became a mainstay in the Later Vedic period. Their sole function was to serve those of the upper-castes

[In EVP]Women were allowed a greater degree of freedom in this period. They were allowed to participate in the political process of the time to a certain extent WHEREAS, [In LVP]Women were restricted from their participation in society by being relegated to subordinate and docile roles

[In EVP]Kingship was fluid as the kings were elected for a fixed period by the local assembly known as Samiti WHEREAS,[In LVP]As society became more urbanized in this period, the need for stable leadership was realized. Thus the absolute rule of the Kings became more and more prominent

[In EVP]Early Vedic society was pastoralist and semi-nomadic  in nature WHEREAS, [In LVP]Society became more settled in nature. It became centred around agriculture in general

[In EVP]In the Early Vedic Period, the barter  system was more prevalent with little to no monetary value transaction being part of the exchange WHEREAS, [In LVP] Although the barter system was still in practice, it was largely replaced by the exchange of gold and silver coins known as Krishnala

[In EVP] Rigveda. This text is cited as the earliest text from this period  WHEREAS,[In LVP] Yajurveda. Samaveda

Atharvaveda

Explanation: