Question

what did the spread of print culture mean to the poor in India in 19th century
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Answer 1

ANSWER:

The spread of print culture in the 19th century greatly benefited the different sections of the society such as bringing educational reforms for women; the poor were benefited by low-priced books which enabled them to read more thus increasing literacy rate; and reformers were able to voice their opinions through books and newspapers on various social issues.

EXPLANATION:

Women:

          It brought about educational reforms for women in the 19th century. Liberal fathers and husbands were enthused by articles/books written on women’s live and thus educated their women folks at home or by sending them to schools meant for women. With this, women who were all along restricted to a domestic life for decades, now realised a new avenue of entertainment. Furthermore, women started writing journal articles in favour of women's literacy, education, child marriage sati, dowry, etc.

The Poor:

           With the literacy rate rising, printed materials were available widely at lower prices to the poor people. This increased the ratio of readers and literacy rate. During 19th century several public libraries were set-up that came with more prospects for readers. Therefore, poor people also began to read stories and religious books. Moreover, factory workers had set-up libraries for self-education and wrote books by enthusing from social reformers. Edifying articles were written against caste oppression and its innate injustices. These were read by people across the nation.

Reformers:

           Print culture’s popularity was huge advantage for religious and social reformers as they could spread their thoughts and opinions through books and newspapers, across the people.Reformist ideas were presented in the local, daily languages of the public to generate a broader platform for the same. This led to new reformation ideas coming from diverse people since more people started reading about the debates between religious and social reformation. Cultural issues were debated openly after this move and later these rituals were reformed.