The introduction of an alphabetic script circa 600 BCE created which of the following changes in Vedic society?
A) Vaishyas gained more wealth and social importance because they could now record transactions and thus improve profitability.
B) The Brahmans' control over religious ideas was undercut because previously only the Brahmans had memorized the vast amount of Vedic religious literature.
C) Untouchables took over the role of scribe and began to mingle with other varnas.
D) Kshatriyas gained prestige because they could now popularize the tales of ancient heroes who had led the migration into India.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

With the introduction of an alphabetic script, the Brahmans' monopoly over Vedic religious literature was undercut as now anyone could read and write. Previously, the Brahmans had memorized the large amount of religious literature, which gave them a position of control and authority over religious ideas. With the introduction of writing, the control shifted to those who were literate, regardless of their caste. While Vaishyas may have gained more wealth through record-keeping, it did not necessarily increase their social importance. There is no evidence to suggest that untouchables took over the role of scribes or that Kshatriyas gained prestige from popularizing ancient tales.

The Introduction of an Alphabetic Script Circa 600 BCE Created