Richard M. Eaton
8 key ideas, each explained in our own words.
India in the Persianate Age
- IDEA 1
A new frame for medieval India
Eaton covers Indian history from about 1000 to 1765, a period he calls the Persianate age. He argues it should not be seen mainly as a story of Hindu-Muslim conflict, but as a time of interaction between cultural worlds.
- IDEA 2
Two cultural worlds met
Eaton describes a Sanskrit cultural world, linked to Indian kingship and religion, and a Persianate world, shaped by Persian language, literature and courtly ideals. Over time, these worlds interacted and blended.
- IDEA 3
Turkic conquests brought change
Eaton describes how Turkic rulers from Central Asia conquered north India, establishing the Delhi Sultanate. They brought Persian as a language of government and culture. New institutions took root in north India.
Go deeper with Richard M. EatonAsk questions, argue with the ideas and practise using them, free.
Open in the app