What is the canon and why is it problematic?
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was a Bronze Age civilization that thrived in the Indus Valley region, which is now modern-day Pakistan and northwestern India, from around 3300 to 1300 BCE. Here are some of the key features and achievements of the Harappan civRead more
The Harappan civilization, also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, was a Bronze Age civilization that thrived in the Indus Valley region, which is now modern-day Pakistan and northwestern India, from around 3300 to 1300 BCE. Here are some of the key features and achievements of the Harappan civilization:
Known for:
- Urban planning and architecture: The Harappans built sophisticated cities with advanced urban planning, featuring straight roads, drainage systems, and multi-story buildings made of baked bricks.
- Water management: They developed a complex system of canals, dams, and reservoirs to manage water resources, which allowed them to practice agriculture and support a large population.
- Trade and commerce: The Harappans were skilled traders who exchanged goods with Mesopotamia, Egypt, and other civilizations. They used a system of weights and measures, and their seals and pottery have been found in many parts of the ancient world.
- Script and writing: The Harappans had a written script, which has not yet been fully deciphered. They used this script to write on seals, pottery, and other objects.
- Craftsmanship: They were skilled craftsmen who produced high-quality pottery, jewelry, and metalwork.
Destruction:
The decline and eventual destruction of the Harappan civilization is still a topic of debate among historians and archaeologists. There are several theories, but no consensus on a single cause. Here are some of the possible factors that contributed to the decline:
- Climate change: Changes in the climate may have led to a decrease in the Indus River’s water levels, making it difficult for the civilization to sustain itself.
- Drought: A prolonged drought may have affected the agricultural productivity and food supply, leading to the decline of the civilization.
- Earthquakes and floods: Natural disasters like earthquakes and floods may have damaged the cities and disrupted the economy.
- Invasions and migrations: The Harappan civilization may have been weakened by invasions from other groups, such as the Aryans, who are believed to have migrated to the region from Central Asia.
- Environmental degradation: Overexploitation of natural resources, deforestation, and soil salinization may have contributed to the decline of the civilization.
Around 1900 BCE, the Harappan civilization began to decline, and by 1300 BCE, it had largely disappeared. The cities were abandoned, and the people may have migrated to other regions or been absorbed into other cultures. The legacy of the Harappan civilization continues to fascinate historians and archaeologists, and its contributions to urban planning, trade, and craftsmanship remain an important part of human history.
See less
The canon, in literature, refers to a collection of works considered to be the most important, influential, or representative of a particular time period, genre, or culture. These works are often seen as "classics" that have endured the test of time and hold significant value. However, the concept oRead more
The canon, in literature, refers to a collection of works considered to be the most important, influential, or representative of a particular time period, genre, or culture. These works are often seen as “classics” that have endured the test of time and hold significant value.
However, the concept of the canon has become increasingly problematic for several reasons:
The call for a more inclusive canon is growing. This means broadening the selection of works to include voices that have been historically marginalized, and considering a wider range of criteria for what makes a work valuable.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- The canon is not static. New works can be added, and old ones can be reevaluated over time.
- There can be multiple canons, reflecting different cultures and perspectives.
- The most important thing is to encourage exploration of a wide range of literature and to find works that resonate with you.
See less