Synopses & Reviews
These essays explore the processes of change in Indian society over the period from about the seventh to the thirteenth century. Departing radically from the current historiography on the period, the author posits change as represented by processes of progressive transformation, not by the breakdown of an earlier social order. Within this framework, he discusses such diverse themes as irrigation, urbanization, the formation of a dominant ruling caste, and the structure of polity in general.
Review
"...This work provides an alternative as well as an integrated view of the study of early medieval society in India and is a valuable addition to the field."--American Historical Review
"The collection clearly confirms the author's position as one of the leading scholars in this period of Indian history, making major contributions in methodology and in theory...By demonstrating command over sources and a rigorous control over time and space variables, by moving our concepts away from obsolete category debates, Chattopadhyaya is showing us the cutting edge of this field."--Journal of the American Oriental Society