Chapter:
Bengal Renaissance & Social Reformers
Q1: Who
was the editor of Bamabodhini?
A: Dwarakanath Gangopadhyay
Q2: Who
translated Nil Darpan?
A: Reverend Long
Q3: Who was
the first principal of Calcutta Medical College?
A: Goodeve
Q4: Bamabodhini was
established by whom?
A: Sambhunath Pandit
Q5: In which
year was the first official Education Commission (Hunter Commission) formed?
A: 1882 AD
Q6: In which
year did Debendranath Tagore join the Brahmo Samaj?
A: 1843 AD
Q7: From
where was Grambarta Prakashika published?
A: Jessore
Q8: In which
year was the first B.A. examination of Calcutta University held?
A: 1860 AD
Q9: The
Renaissance in Bengal was:
A: Calcutta based
Fill in the
Blanks
Q1: ________
fought against the practice of sati.
A: Raja Rammohan Roy
Q2: Widow
Remarriage Act was introduced by ________.
A: Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
Q3: Swami
Vivekananda's guru was ________.
A: Ramakrishna Paramhansa
Q4: Keshab
Chandra joined the Brahmo Samaj in ________.
A: 1859 AD
Q5: ________
was the writer of Bartaman Bharat.
A: Swami Vivekananda
True or False
Q1: Bankim
Chandra Chattopadhyay was the editor of Bangadarshan's second
phase.
A: True
Q2: The
colonial English were imbued with Victorian decency.
A: True
Q3: Hutom
Pyanchar Naksha was written by Kaliprasanna Singha.
A: True
Q4: Sri
Ramakrishna set up the Ramakrishna Mission.
A: False (It was Swami Vivekananda)
Important Year
|
Institution |
Year |
|
Sanskrit College |
1824 AD |
|
Calcutta University |
1857 AD |
|
Medical College |
1835 AD |
|
Calcutta Madrasa |
1781 AD |
Very Short
Answer Questions (VSAQs)
Q1: Who gave
Keshab Chandra the title Brahmananda?
A: Devendranath Tagore
Q2: In which
year was National Theatre set up?
A: 1872 AD
Q3: In which
year was Fort William College founded?
A: 1800 AD
Q4: What was
the earlier name of Scottish Church College?
A: General Assembly’s Institution
Q5: In which
year was the Calcutta School Book Society established?
A: 1817 AD
Q6: Name one
book written by Swami Vivekananda.
A: Karma Yoga
Q7: Name the
book written by Vijaykrishna Goswami.
A: Prema Pradipa
Q8: Who is
called the Father of Rural Journalism?
A: Harish Chandra Mukhopadhyay
Q9: Who was
the editor of the newspaper Bengal Gazette?
A: James Augustus Hickey
Short Answer
Questions (SAQs)
Q1: Why
was Grambarta Prakashika published?
A: It was published to spread awareness about rural problems and
promote reformist ideas among common people.
Q2: What was
the earlier name of Scottish Church College?
A: General Assembly’s Institution
Q3: What is
the significance of the Brahmo Samaj?
A: The Brahmo Samaj played a vital role in social reform by
promoting monotheism, rationalism, women's rights, and opposing caste-based
discrimination.
Descriptive
Answer Questions (DAQs)
Q1: Explain
the contribution of Raja Rammohan Roy to the Bengal Renaissance.
A:
Raja Rammohan Roy was a key figure of the Bengal Renaissance. His contributions
include:
- Social
Reform: He
led efforts to abolish sati and promoted widow
remarriage.
- Educational
Reform: He
encouraged modern education and supported English and science education in
India.
- Religious
Reform: He
founded the Brahmo Samaj to promote monotheism and oppose superstitions.
- Journalism: He
published Samvad Kaumudi to raise social and political
awareness.
Q2: What
were some notable newspapers and periodicals of the Bengal Renaissance?
A:
Some important newspapers and journals of the Bengal Renaissance were:
- Bengal
Gazette –
James Augustus Hickey (First English newspaper in India)
- Samvad
Kaumudi –
Raja Rammohan Roy (Advocated social reforms)
- Tattvabodhini
Patrika –
Devendranath Tagore (Promoted rationalism)
- Hindu
Patriot –
Harish Chandra Mukhopadhyay (Supported indigo farmers)
1. Historical
Figures and Their Contributions
Social
Reformers
- Who
established Brahmo Samaj?
Raja Rammohan Roy established the Brahmo Samaj in 1828. It was a socio-religious reform movement aimed at discarding idol worship and promoting monotheism, rationality, and ethical living. - Who
founded Brahmo Samaj, and what goals of social reforms did it pursue?
Raja Rammohan Roy founded Brahmo Samaj with the objective to reform Hinduism by eliminating social evils like Sati, casteism, and superstitions. It supported women's rights, monotheism, and modern education. - Discuss
the role of Raja Ram Mohan Roy in the spread of Western education.
Raja Rammohan Roy advocated the introduction of English education and modern scientific subjects in place of traditional Sanskrit-based learning. He supported the establishment of Hindu College in 1817 and published journals to promote rational thought and learning among Indians. - Analyze
the role of Raja Radhakanta Deb in promoting women's education in Bengal.
Raja Radhakanta Deb, though initially a traditionalist, later supported education reforms. He was associated with the Calcutta School Book Society and gradually advocated for the spread of education among upper-caste Hindu girls, marking an important shift among conservative elites. - Discuss
briefly the role of Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar in the spread of female
education.
Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar was a key advocate of women's education in 19th-century Bengal. He opened several girls’ schools, introduced female teachers, and personally funded many educational initiatives. He also played a pivotal role in passing the Widow Remarriage Act of 1856, emphasizing women's social rights. - Name
two social reformers who worked for the welfare of humans.
1. Raja Rammohan Roy – He fought against social evils like Sati and championed education.
2. Keshab Chandra Sen – He promoted women's rights and opposed caste discrimination. - Name
two social reformers who worked for the welfare of women.
1. Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar – Advocated for widow remarriage and women’s education.
2. John Elliot Drinkwater Bethune – Founded Bethune School to educate Indian girls. - What
was the contribution of John Elliot Drinkwater Bethune to the cause of
women's education?
John Bethune, an English educationist, established the Bethune School in Calcutta in 1849, which later became Bethune College—the first institution for higher education of women in India. His efforts laid the foundation for women's formal education during the colonial period. - Why
was there a rift in the Brahmo Samaj of India?
The rift occurred due to differences between Debendranath Tagore and Keshab Chandra Sen. While Debendranath was more conservative, Keshab adopted radical reforms like opposing child marriage and promoting inter-caste marriages. This ideological clash led to the formation of the "Brahmo Samaj of India" by Keshab in 1866. - Mention
any two social reform activities of the Brahmo Samaj.
1. The Brahmo Samaj campaigned for the abolition of Sati and child marriage.
2. It advocated widow remarriage and women's education, promoting progressive social values within Indian society.
Education and
Institutions
- Hindu
College was established in the year?
Hindu College was established in 1817 in Calcutta. It became a centre for Western education and played a key role in the Bengal Renaissance. - When
and why was Kolkata Medical College established?
Kolkata Medical College was established in 1835 by Lord William Bentinck. It was the first Western medical institution in Asia, aimed at teaching modern medical science to Indians and training qualified doctors. - What
is Macaulay’s Minute?
Macaulay's Minute of 1835 was a policy document written by Thomas Babington Macaulay that argued for the promotion of English education in India. It criticized traditional Oriental learning and advocated English as the medium of instruction for higher education. - What
was the role of Young Bengal Movement in social reform?
The Young Bengal Movement, led by Henry Derozio, inspired students to think freely, question orthodoxy, and adopt modern scientific knowledge. They supported women's rights, rationalism, and Western education, contributing significantly to social awakening in Bengal. - Name
two leaders of the Young Bengal Movement.
1. Henry Vivian Derozio – Founder and intellectual leader.
2. Rasik Krishna Mallick – Prominent reform-minded student and speaker. - Who
were known as the Young Bengal Society?
The Young Bengal Society was a group of students and intellectuals inspired by Henry Derozio in the 1820s–30s. They questioned social evils, encouraged liberal thinking, and embraced science and modern knowledge. - Analyze
the contribution of University of Calcutta to the spread of education in
the 19th century.
The University of Calcutta, established in 1857, was the first modern university in South Asia. It standardized higher education, introduced degree examinations, promoted Western academic disciplines, and produced a generation of educated Indians who contributed to law, administration, and reform. - What
were the merits and demerits of spreading Western education in India?
Merits: Promoted rational thinking, introduced science and liberal arts, created educated middle class.
Demerits: Undermined traditional education, widened cultural gaps, and created dependence on Western ideals. - The
first lady graduate of the University of Calcutta is?
Chandramukhi Basu was the first woman to graduate from Calcutta University in 1883, making her one of the earliest female graduates in India. - The
first student organization in India was?
The Academic Association, founded in 1828 by Henry Derozio, was the first student-led body promoting discussions on literature, politics, and reform. - Who
was the propounder of the Downward Filtration Policy?
Lord Hardinge implemented the policy which suggested educating the elite, who would then spread knowledge to the lower classes. - What
is the Downward Filtration Theory?
A British colonial policy of providing Western education to upper-class Indians so that they could serve as intermediaries to educate and influence the masses below them. - According
to which of the following acts, ₹1,00,000 would be spent every year for the expansion of
education in India?
The Charter Act of 1813 made a provision of ₹1,00,000 annually for the promotion of education in India. - Wood’s
Dispatch was published in?
Wood’s Dispatch was published in 1854. - What
do you understand by Wood’s Dispatch?
It was a comprehensive education plan issued by Charles Wood, emphasizing the need for vernacular primary education, higher education in English, teacher training, and the establishment of universities in India. - Calcutta
School Book Society was established during the year?
It was established in 1817 to promote publication of textbooks and encourage the use of English and Bengali in education. - Bethune
School was established by?
John Elliot Drinkwater Bethune in 1849 to promote girls’ education in India. - Who
established General Assemblies?
Alexander Duff, a Scottish missionary, established the General Assembly’s Institution in 1830, which later became Scottish Church College.
2. Literature
and Journalism
Books and
Authors
- Neel
Darpan was written by?
"Neel Darpan" was written by Dinabandhu Mitra in 1860. The play depicted the brutal exploitation of Indian peasants by British indigo planters. - Neel
Darpan was translated into English by?
Michael Madhusudan Dutt translated "Neel Darpan" into English. The translation was published anonymously by Reverend James Long, leading to his trial by the British authorities. - The
author of Hutom Pyanchar Naksha is?
Kaliprasanna Singha wrote "Hutom Pyanchar Naksha." The book, published in 1861, presents a satirical and humorous picture of 19th-century Bengali society through the eyes of an owl (Hutom). - What
picture of 19th-century Bengali society is revealed in the book Hutom
Pyanchar Naksha?
The book reflects the social changes, hypocrisies, and contradictions of 19th-century Bengali society. It mocks the blind imitation of Western culture, the corruption of traditional values, and the lifestyle of the newly emerged Bengali elite during the Bengal Renaissance. - What
was the theme of the drama Neel Darpan?
The theme of "Neel Darpan" revolves around the oppression and cruelty faced by Indian farmers at the hands of British indigo planters. It highlights the socio-economic exploitation and the resistance of Indian peasants. - Write
a short note on Dinabandhu Mitra.
Dinabandhu Mitra was a renowned Bengali dramatist best known for his play "Neel Darpan." He used his writing to expose the sufferings of indigo farmers. His realistic portrayal of social issues earned him recognition as a pioneer of modern Bengali drama. - Why
is Madhusudan Gupta memorable?
Madhusudan Gupta was a prominent Indian physician and the first Indian to dissect a human body for medical study in 1836. This act marked a turning point in modern medical education in India and challenged orthodox taboos. - Barnaparichay
was written by?
"Barnaparichay" was written by Iswar Chandra Vidyasagar. It was a Bengali primer that simplified the Bengali alphabet and became a foundational textbook for Bengali language learners.
Newspapers and
Editors
- The
first weekly newspaper in Bengali is?
"Samachar Darpan" was the first Bengali weekly newspaper, started in 1818 by the Serampore Missionaries. - Hindu
Patriot was?
"Hindu Patriot" was a nationalist English weekly newspaper that voiced Indian grievances against British colonial rule and advocated social reforms. - Who
was the editor of Hindu Patriot?
Harish Chandra Mukherjee was the most prominent editor of the Hindu Patriot. He transformed it into a powerful voice of Indian nationalism and reform. - The
newspaper which was published in the 19th century was?
Many newspapers were published in the 19th century. Among them, "Hindu Patriot," "Samachar Darpan," and "Grambarta Prakashika" were significant for their contributions to public awareness and reform. - The
first editor of Grambarta Prakashika was?
Harinath Majumdar was the first editor of "Grambarta Prakashika." He used the newspaper to spread messages of social reform and rural development. - Grambarta
Prakashika was first published in?
"Grambarta Prakashika" was first published in 1863 from Kumarkhali, Bengal. - Bahinipatrika
was?
"Bahinipatrika" was a Bengali women’s magazine that played an important role in spreading awareness about women's issues and encouraging female literacy and empowerment in Bengal. - Analyze
the contribution of Hindu Patriot to the social lives of 19th-century
Bengal.
"Hindu Patriot" highlighted British exploitation, indigo atrocities, and the importance of education and reforms. It provided a platform for nationalist voices and raised public awareness on social and political issues, influencing Bengal's educated middle class during the colonial era. - What
was the picture of society portrayed by Grambarta Prakashika?
"Grambarta Prakashika" portrayed rural Bengal’s socio-economic problems and encouraged social awareness. It advocated reforms like women's education, caste equality, and economic development, reflecting the aspirations of the rural middle class in the 19th century.
3. Religious
and Philosophical Thought
Swami
Vivekananda and His Ideals
- What
doctrine did Swami Vivekananda expound at the Parliament of Religions in
Chicago?
At the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, Swami Vivekananda expounded the doctrine of the universal acceptance of all religions. He emphasized the message of tolerance, unity of faiths, and the idea that all religions are different paths leading to the same truth. His speech introduced Indian spiritualism to the West and emphasized the core Hindu belief in religious pluralism. - Explain
why Vivekananda’s idea of religious freedom was significant.
Vivekananda’s idea of religious freedom was significant because it promoted harmony among religionsat a time when the world was plagued by religious conflict and superiority. He preached that no religion is superior or inferior and that all are valid ways to reach the divine. This inclusive ideology helped in establishing India’s image as a land of deep spiritual wisdom and tolerance on a global stage. - Bring
out in brief Swami Vivekananda's thoughts on the idea of service to
mankind.
Swami Vivekananda strongly believed that“Service to man is service to God”. He encouraged people to uplift the poor and downtrodden through education, healthcare, and social work. He believed that spirituality must be practical and expressed through compassionate action. His ideals led to the foundation of the Ramakrishna Mission, which continues to serve humanity through its charitable and educational work.
Other Religious
Thinkers
- Who
said about men making religion?
Swami Vivekananda said, “It is we who create religion.” He emphasized that religions are shaped by human understanding and that spiritual truth is beyond dogma or ritual. - Who
was Radhakanta Deb?
Raja Radhakanta Deb was aconservative social reformerand a Sanskrit scholar. He was a member of the Hindu elite in 19th-century Bengal and supported women's education but opposed radical changes like the abolition of sati. He founded the Calcutta School Book Society and promoted traditional Hindu values alongside education. - By
whom and when was Ramakrishna Mission established?
The Ramakrishna Mission was established by Swami Vivekananda in 1897. It was founded in memory of his guru, Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa, and aimed to combine spiritual progress with humanitarian service. The mission operates hospitals, schools, and relief efforts across India and abroad. - Write
a short note on the role played by Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa in
religious and social lives of the 19th century.
Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa was a 19th-century Indian mystic and saint who preached universal religion and God-realization through love and devotion. He practiced and respected various faiths including Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. His simple life and deep spirituality attracted many followers. His teachings inspired Swami Vivekananda, who later carried forward his message. Ramakrishna emphasized purity, spiritual discipline, and the idea that all religions lead to the same divine truth, contributing greatly to India’s religious renaissance.
4. Social and
Political Movements
Reform
Movements
- Mention
one social reform movement of the 19th century and its founder.
The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Rammohan Roy in 1828, was one of the most important social reform movements of the 19th century. It aimed to promote monotheism, abolish social evils like sati, and improve women’s rights and education. - What
was the role of Young Bengal Movement in social reform?
The Young Bengal Movement, led by Henry Vivian Derozio, encouraged rational thinking, freedom of expression, and criticism of social orthodoxy. It inspired students of Hindu College to challenge traditions such as caste discrimination, superstition, and untouchability, laying early foundations for social reform in Bengal. - What
was the Naba Banga Movement?
The Naba Banga Movement was a cultural and intellectual awakening in Bengal during the 19th century. It emphasized reforms in literature, religion, society, and politics. It fostered a new Bengali identity rooted in modern ideas while retaining traditional values. Reformers like Rammohan Roy and Vidyasagar were prominent figures in this movement. - Evaluate
the contribution of Henry Vivian Derozio in the Naba Banga Movement.
Henry Vivian Derozio played a pioneering role in the Naba Banga Movement by inspiring a group of radical and progressive students at Hindu College. Through his teaching, poetry, and personal example, he promoted secularism, scientific thinking, and a questioning attitude. His followers, known as the Derozians or Young Bengal, became early advocates for social equality, education, and women's rights in Bengal.
Colonial
Policies and Their Impact
- What
was the role of Raja Ram Mohan Roy in the spread of Western education?
Raja Ram Mohan Roy advocated for Western education with a focus on science, mathematics, and English literature. He supported the establishment of English-medium schools and opposed the traditional Sanskrit-based system. He played a key role in the founding of Hindu College and promoted learning that would enable Indians to understand liberal and scientific ideas from the West. - What
was the contribution of University of Calcutta to the spread of education
in the 19th century?
The University of Calcutta, established in 1857, was the first modern university in India. It provided a structured system of higher education, examinations, and degrees. The university played a crucial role in producing educated Indians who later became leaders in law, politics, journalism, and social reform during the Bengal Renaissance. - What
was the role of Young Bengal Movement in social reform?
The Young Bengal Movement challenged age-old customs and promoted liberal ideas, scientific thinking, and social justice. It questioned casteism, idol worship, and gender inequality, thereby sowing the seeds of modern reformist thought in 19th-century Bengal. Its influence can be seen in later reform movements and freedom struggles. - What
was the impact of Wood’s Dispatch on education?
Wood’s Dispatch, issued in 1854, is known as the "Magna Carta of English Education in India." It emphasized the development of vernacular primary education, the establishment of universities, teacher training, and government funding for education. It laid the foundation for the modern education system and led to increased educational opportunities across India. - What
was the role of Macaulay’s Minute in shaping education policies?
Macaulay’s Minute, written in 1835, argued for promoting English education over traditional Indian learning. It recommended using English as the medium of instruction and aimed to create a class of Indians who were “Indian in blood and color but English in taste.” This formed the basis of the Downward Filtration Theory, which shaped British education policy in India by emphasizing elite education over mass literacy.
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