Gupta Period-Source of information MCQs with Explanations
About the Topic: Sources of the Gupta Period include inscriptions, coins, literary works and foreign accounts that help reconstruct the history of the Gupta Empire. Practice MCQ Questions with detailed answers and explanations.
The first inscriptional evidence of the Satipratha has been found from –
Correct Answer:
(A) Eran
The first evidence of ‘Satipratha’ has been found from the inscription of Eran. This inscription belongs to 510AD in which practice of Satipratha has been mentioned for a lady who was the wife of war commander named ‘Gopraj.’
Ques: 2
With reference to the Gupta empire, consider the following statements:
Prakrit was the official language.
The period saw the last phase of Smriti literature.
Vasubandhu wrote Buddhist texts.
How many of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer:
(B) Only two
Statement 1 is incorrect: Sanskrit was the official language.
Statement 2 is correct: The period saw the last phase of Smriti literature.
Smritis: Religious texts covering ethics, politics, culture and art.
‘Mahabhashya’: Written by Patanjali.
‘Amarkosa’: Written by Amarsimha
Statement 3 is correct: Vasubandhu wrote Buddhist texts.
Ques: 3
Consider the following statements regarding Literary sources of information about the Gupta period:
1. 'Shakuntala' and 'Meghaduta', provide insights into the culture and society of the time.
2. Aryabhata's astronomical texts highlight advancements in science and mathematics.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer:
(C) Both 1 and 2
Kalidasa's works, particularly "Shakuntala" and "Meghaduta," provide valuable insights into the cultural and social norms of the Gupta period. These works offer glimpses into marriage practices, love, and the interactions between different social classes.
Aryabhata's work, particularly his astronomical texts like the Aryabhatiya, significantly advanced both science and mathematics. He developed a system for expressing large numbers, made accurate calculations of pi, and introduced key trigonometric concepts. He also proposed that the Earth rotates on its axis and revolves around the sun, and accurately predicted eclipses. His contributions were influential in India and beyond, and his work laid the foundation for later developments in mathematics and astronomy.
Ques: 4
Consider the following statements:
1. Gupta coins are significant for understanding the economy and political structure.
2. Numerous inscriptions from the Gupta period have been found on pillars and stones, but not on coins.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct Answer:
(A) 1 only
Coins: Gupta coins are significant for understanding the economy and political structure. They often feature images of rulers and deities, providing insights into the art and religion of the time.
Inscriptions: Numerous inscriptions from the Gupta period have been found on pillars, stones, and coins. The most famous is the Allahabad Pillar inscription, which details the achievements of Emperor Samudragupta.
Ques: 5
Which of the following is/ are the sources of information about the Gupta Period?
1. Puranas
2. Rajatarangini
3. Mudhrakshasam
4. Hathigumpha inscription
5. Mehrauli Iron Pillar Inscription
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Correct Answer:
(B) 1, 3 and 5 only
Information about the Gupta period is available from both archaeological and literary sources. The most important archaeological source of the Gupta period is the Allahabad Pillar inscription. It also gives the details of Samudragupta’s military expeditions.