Grade-8, SST, Women and Reform

 

EXERCISES

1. Fill in the blanks with appropriate words.

(a) Lord William Bentinck abolished sati in 1829.

(b) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar championed the cause of widow remarriage.

(c) The Child Marriage Restraint Act was also called the Sarda Act.

(d) The autobiography of Rassundari Devi is titled Amar Jiban.

(e) Rokeya Hossain started a school in Bhagalpur in memory of her husband.

 

2. Choose the correct answer.

(a) Which reformer is called the 'Maker of Modern India?

(i) Debendranath Tagore

(ii) Keshab Chandra Sen

(iii) Raja Ram Mohan Roy

(iv) William Bentinck

Answer- (iii) Raja Ram Mohan Roy

 

(b) Who was the first woman in the modern age to read the Vedas herself?

(i) Rokeya Hossain

(ii) Pandita Ramabai

(iii) Haimabati Sen

(iv) Savitribai Phule

Answer- (ii) Pandita Ramabai

 

(c) The Age of Consent Act tackled the issue of child marriage.

(i) Child marriage

(ii) widow remarriage.

(iii) sati.

(iv) none of these

Answer- (i) Child marriage

 

(d) When was the Sarda Act passed?

(i) 1919

(ii) 1929

(iii) 1939

(iv) 1949

Answer- (ii) 1929

 

(e) Which reformer worked for the cause of women's rights?

(i) Raja Ram Mohan Roy

(ii) Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

(iii) Behramji Malabari

(iv) all of these

Answer- (iv) all of these

 

3. Match the rows.

(a) Raja Ram Mohan Roy (b) Pandita Ramabai (c) Child Marriage Restraint Act (d) J. E. D. Bethune (e) Rokeya Hossain

(i) Sultana's Dream Le (ii) Rai Sahib Harbilas Sarda (iii) advocate of widow remarriage (iv) ban on sati (v) girl's school in Calcutta

Answer-

(a) Raja Ram Mohan Roy - (iv) ban on sati

(b) Pandita Ramabai - (iii) advocate of widow remarriage

(c) Child Marriage Restraint Act - (ii) Rai Sahib Harbilas Sarda

(d) J. E. D. Bethune - (v) girl's school in Calcutta

(e) Rokeya Hossain - (i) Sultana's Dream 

 

4. Write true or false. Correct the false sentences in your notebook.

(a) Women's uplift is necessary for social and political progress.

True

(b) Swami Vivekananda was the social reformer who fought to ban sati.  

False. Raja Ram Mohan Roy was the social reformer who fought to ban sati.

(c) Widows led a pleasant life in India.

False. Widows led a miserable life in India.

(d) Pandita Ramabai opened many schools for child widows.

True

(e) Women's education was greatly encouraged in families in the 19th century.

False. Women's education was not greatly encouraged in families in the 19th century.

 

5. Answer the following questions in one or two sentences.

(a) Mention two reasons for the growth of the movement to uplift women in the colonial period.

Answer- The growth of the women's upliftment movement in the colonial period was driven by the influence of Western ideas of equality and human rights, and the rising nationalist sentiment that recognized the need for social reform to achieve political progress.

 

(b) What was sati?

Answer- Sati was a practice where a Hindu widow immolated herself on her husband's funeral pyre.

 

(c). Which cause was Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar associated with?

Answer- Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was associated with the cause of widow remarriage.

 

(d) Why were girls married off at a young age?

Answer- Girls were married off at a young age to ensure their chastity, secure family alliances, and reduce the burden of their upkeep on the family.

 

(e) Write down any two objections raised against women's education.

Answer- Two objections raised against women's education were that it would make women neglect their domestic duties and that it would make them unfit for marriage.

 

6. Answer the following questions in four or five sentences.

(a) What were some of the problems faced in the process of reform?

Answer- Some of the problems faced in the process of reform were:

1. Religious orthodoxy: Many conservative religious leaders opposed reforms, viewing them as attacks on traditional values.

2. Social resistance: Societal norms and prejudices hindered the acceptance of progressive ideas.

3. Lack of awareness: Many people, especially in rural areas, were unaware of the need for reform or were resistant to change.

4. Limited resources: Reformers often lacked the necessary resources to implement their ideas on a large scale.

5. Colonial interference: The British colonial government's policies sometimes hindered reform efforts or were indifferent to social issues.

(b) Discuss the role played by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in the abolition of sati.

Answer- Raja Ram Mohan Roy played a crucial role in the abolition of sati:

1. Public awareness: He used his writings and speeches to raise public awareness about the harmful practice of sati.

2. Logical arguments: He presented logical and rational arguments against sati, challenging the religious and social justifications for it.

3. Petitioning the government: He petitioned the British government to ban sati, providing evidence of its harmful effects.

4. Counteracting orthodox opposition: He effectively countered the arguments of orthodox Hindu leaders who defended sati.

5. Mobilizing public opinion: He mobilized public opinion against sati, creating a strong social movement that pressured the government to take action.

(c) How were widows treated in 19th-century India?

Answer- Widows in 19th-century India faced a miserable life:

1. Social stigma: They were often ostracized and treated as inauspicious.

2. Economic hardship: They were often deprived of their rightful inheritance and faced economic difficulties.

3. Limited social opportunities: They were denied access to education and employment, limiting their chances for social and economic advancement.

4. Forced seclusion: They were often confined to their homes and subjected to strict social restrictions.

5. Early death: Due to poor health, malnutrition, and neglect, many widows died prematurely.

(d) How was the issue of child marriage linked to the age of consent?

Answer- The issue of child marriage was linked to the age of consent in the following ways: 1. Legal protection: Raising the age of consent provided legal protection to young girls from sexual exploitation.

2. Delayed marriage: By setting a higher minimum age for marriage, it encouraged delayed marriages and allowed girls to complete their education.

3. Health benefits: Delayed marriage reduced the risks associated with early pregnancy and childbirth, improving the health of young girls.

4. Empowerment of women: It empowered women by giving them more control over their lives and choices.

(e) What were some of the challenges faced in the issue of women's education?

Answer- Some of the challenges faced in the issue of women's education were:

1. Social resistance: Conservative societal attitudes and prejudices often discouraged girls' education.

2. Lack of educational institutions: There were limited educational institutions, especially for girls, particularly in rural areas.

3. Financial constraints: Many families, especially from lower-income backgrounds, could not afford to educate their daughters.

4. Gender stereotypes: Women were often discouraged from pursuing higher education and were expected to focus on domestic duties.

5. Limited career opportunities: Even if educated, women faced limited job opportunities, which discouraged them from pursuing higher education.

 

Values and Life Skills

In order to build a progressive society, we have to be rational and liberal in our thinking and behaviour. A modern outlook is important to get rid of the social evils that stagnate the society and make it decadent and backward.

Mention some of the evil social practices that are still prevalent in the Indian society today. What changes will you suggest to reform the society?

Answer- Some of the evil social practices that are still prevalent in Indian society today include:

Caste discrimination: Despite constitutional bans, caste-based discrimination persists in various forms, such as social exclusion, occupational restrictions, and unequal opportunities.

Gender inequality: Women continue to face discrimination in areas like education, employment, property rights, and decision-making.

Child marriage: Although illegal, child marriage still occurs in certain regions, particularly in rural areas.

Domestic violence: Domestic violence against women remains a serious issue, often hidden and underreported.

Dowry system: Despite legal prohibitions, dowry-related harassment and violence continue to plague many marriages.

Untouchability: Practices of untouchability, particularly against Dalits, persist in certain regions, limiting their access to basic amenities and social opportunities.

To reform society, we need to:

Strengthen legal frameworks: Enforce existing laws against discriminatory practices and strengthen legal mechanisms to protect vulnerable groups.

Promote education and awareness: Educate people about the harmful effects of social evils and promote gender equality, social justice, and human rights.

Empower marginalized groups: Empower women, Dalits, and other marginalized groups through education, skill development, and economic opportunities.

Encourage social reforms: Support social organizations and movements working towards social change and reform.

Change mindsets: Challenge traditional and discriminatory beliefs and promote a more inclusive and equitable society.

Government intervention: The government should play an active role in implementing policies and programs to address social issues and promote social justice.

By addressing these issues and working towards a more just and equitable society, we can create a better future for all.

Thinking Hat

HOTS-Analytical Skills

Why is it that the issue of women's reform had to be tackled by male reformers? Discuss.

Answer- The issue of women's reform was primarily tackled by male reformers due to several historical and societal factors:  

1. Societal Norms and Restrictions:

Patriarchal Society: Indian society was deeply patriarchal, with men holding dominant positions and women being relegated to subordinate roles.  

Purdah System: Many women, especially from upper-class families, were confined to their homes and had limited access to public life and education.

Lack of Education: Women were often denied education, limiting their opportunities for intellectual growth and social engagement.

2. Limited Agency and Voice:

Social Constraints: Women were subjected to strict social norms and expectations, restricting their ability to speak out and advocate for change.  

Family Pressures: Family pressures and societal expectations often discouraged women from engaging in public discourse and activism.

Fear of Social Ostracism: Women who challenged the status quo risked social ostracism and family disapproval.

3. Male Dominance in Public Sphere:

Political and Social Power: Men held positions of power and influence in society, allowing them to initiate and lead social reform movements.

Access to Resources: Male reformers often had access to resources, education, and networks that women lacked.

Public Platform: Men had greater opportunities to speak in public forums and advocate for change.

However, it's important to note that several women, such as Pandita Ramabai, Rokeya Hossain, and Savitribai Phule, played significant roles in the women's reform movement. They defied societal norms and fought for women's rights, often working alongside male reformers.  

While male reformers played a crucial role in initiating and leading the women's reform movement, it is essential to acknowledge the contributions of women who, despite facing numerous challenges, fought for their rights and contributed to social change.

 

Analytical Skills

Read the following text and answer the questions below.

In 1855, regarding widow remarriage, the Hindu Patriot wrote, 'Everyone feels the evil and wishes it could be removed, but the difficulty is how to meet the lion in his den.' Though there was debate and discussion among educated circles in the country, it was felt that 'the slightest breach of the established rules' would have 'serious consequences'.

(i) What is the evil being referred to here? What is understood by 'meeting the lion in the den'?

Answer- The evil being referred to here is the practice of not allowing widows to remarry. "Meeting the lion in the den" is a metaphor for challenging the powerful and conservative forces in society, particularly the religious orthodoxy, who vehemently opposed widow remarriage.

(ii) What could be the possible consequences of breaching established rules as described above.

Answer- The possible consequences of breaching established rules, as described, could include:

Social ostracism: Individuals who defied traditional norms and customs could be ostracized by their families and communities.

Religious sanctions: Religious leaders could impose social and religious sanctions on those who violated the established rules.

Violence and threats: In some cases, individuals and families could face violence and threats from conservative elements.

Legal challenges: The colonial government, while supportive of reforms, might face legal and political challenges from the conservative forces.

Backlash from the public: Public opinion, particularly among the conservative sections of society, could turn against the reformers.

These potential consequences made it difficult for reformers to challenge the established norms and bring about social change.

 

Analytical Skills

Can you think of ways in which women are still treated as inferior to men? Write them down in your notebook and discuss in class.

Workplace Discrimination:

Gender Pay Gap: Women often earn less than men for doing the same job.  

Limited Career Opportunities: Women may face barriers in career advancement, especially in male-dominated fields.  

Sexual Harassment: Women are more likely to experience sexual harassment in the workplace.  

Domestic Violence:

Physical and Emotional Abuse: Women are often victims of domestic violence, including physical, emotional, and psychological abuse.  

Lack of Support: Many women do not report domestic violence due to fear, shame, or lack of support systems.

Social Discrimination:

Gender Stereotypes: Women are often subjected to harmful stereotypes that limit their potential.  

Patriarchal Structures: Many societies are still patriarchal, with men holding more power and authority.  

Limited Decision-Making Power: Women may have limited decision-making power within their families and communities.  

Healthcare Disparities:

Access to Healthcare: Women may have limited access to quality healthcare, especially in rural areas.  

Reproductive Health Issues: Women may face barriers in accessing reproductive healthcare services.  

Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including legal reforms, social awareness campaigns, and empowering women through education and economic opportunities.

 

Analytical Skills

Even today, it is believed that certain jobs like teaching and nursing are 'appropriate' for women. Can you think of any other such jobs? Find out the reasons behind this belief and present your findings in class.

Stereotypical Gender Roles in Professions

While significant progress has been made in challenging gender stereotypes, certain professions are still often associated with specific genders. Some examples include:

Early Childhood Education: Often seen as a "natural" fit for women due to traditional gender roles.

Secretarial and Administrative Roles: These roles are often stereotyped as requiring patience, organization, and attention to detail, qualities traditionally associated with women.

Caregiving Professions: Jobs like nursing and social work are often perceived as requiring empathy and nurturing qualities, which are stereotypically associated with women.

Reasons Behind These Beliefs:

Historical and Cultural Factors: Traditional gender roles have historically assigned certain tasks and professions to specific genders.

Social Expectations: Societal expectations and norms continue to influence career choices.

Stereotypes and Biases: Implicit biases and stereotypes about gender roles can shape perceptions of suitable professions.

Workplace Culture: Workplace cultures may not always be inclusive and may perpetuate gender stereotypes.

It's important to challenge these stereotypes and encourage individuals to pursue careers based on their interests, skills, and passions, regardless of gender. By breaking down these barriers, we can create a more equitable and inclusive society.