SOAS Research Online

Abstract

This thesis aims at showing the development or social consciousness and social organisation of the Bengalis from the days of the Guptas to those of the Senas. It is divided into eight chapters: Chap. I. gives a short account of ancient geography of Bengal as well as traditional divisions of the Bengali classes and castes. Chap. II. outlines the Adisura legend find the proof on the original sources how it is false. Chap. III. narrates the factors for the growth of caste- syatem, examining thereby how far they are responsible for building up of this institution in Bengal. Chap. IV. describes Brahmin and non-Brahmin classes, their origin, centres of location and divisions among them. Chap. V. treats of caste in Beneal from the Guptas to the Senas. Chap. VI. gives a analysis of different kinds of marriage and of that among the royal families, as well as their subjects belonging to the different castes and classes. Chap. VII. traces the origin of Kulinism. Chap. VIII. summarises all the above chapters.