The Ways of Understanding the Human Past

Title: Ways of Understanding the Human Past: Mythic, Epic, Scientific, and Historic

Author: Debi Prasad Chattopadhyaya

Publisher: Centre for Studies in Civilizations

Place of Publication: New Delhi

Series: PHISPC Monograph Series on History of Philosophy, Science and Culture in India, No. 12

Year: 2001

Language: English

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 164

ISBN-10: 81-87586-05-2

ISBN-13: 978-81-87586-05-0

India Club BC: 8660

Description

This scholarly monograph examines different ways of understanding and representing the human past, with particular attention to the relationship between modern historical inquiry and earlier Indian traditions of narration and knowledge. Debi Prasad Chattopadhyaya considers the meanings associated with history and compares them with Sanskrit concepts such as itihasa, itivrtta, upakhyana, gatha and purana.

The author argues that modern scientific history has considerable value but must itself be understood historically. Its concepts and methods should not be projected uncritically onto ancient and medieval forms of thought. Different understandings of the past emerge from particular social conditions and are reflected in the languages, beliefs, ideals and actions of their periods.

The study examines mythic and epic accounts, history as art, history as science and historical understanding as a practical dialogue between past and present. It also considers how literature, beliefs, myths, customs, conventions and social movements enter historical narratives. The volume is particularly relevant to research in historiography, philosophy of history, Indian intellectual history, Indology and the relationship between literature and historical knowledge.

Contents

Preface

Introduction

Itihasa and Epics

History as Art: Indian Context

History as Science: Indian Context

History as Practical Dialogue: A Passage from Past to Future

Condition

Two new and unused copies from India Club’s preserved inventory. Stored securely in protective plastic coverings.