Why is Megasthenes' account read carefully despite being useful?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: Because he was a foreign observer and some points may be based on limited understanding
Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador who visited the court of Chandragupta Maurya, and his account gives valuable information about Mauryan society and administration. However, he was an outsider writing for readers with a different cultural background, and parts of his work survive through later quotations. Therefore, historians compare it with inscriptions, archaeology, and other texts rather than accepting every statement uncritically.
Frequently asked questions
What is the correct answer to this question?
Because he was a foreign observer and some points may be based on limited understanding
Why is this the correct answer?
Megasthenes was a Greek ambassador who visited the court of Chandragupta Maurya, and his account gives valuable information about Mauryan society and administration. However, he was an outsider writing for readers with a different cultural background, and parts of his work survive through later quotations. Therefore, historians compare it with inscriptions, archaeology, and other texts rather than accepting every statement uncritically.
Which subject and chapter does this question cover?
This is a Class 11 History question. Chapter: Writing and City Life. Topic: Development and uses of writing.
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