About the book
Judith M. Brown, one of the leading historians of South Asia, provides an original and thought-provoking strategy for conducting and presenting historical research in her latest book, Windows into the Past. Brown looks at how varieties of \"life history\" that focus on the lives of institutions and families, as well as individuals, offer a broad and rich means of studying history. Her distinctively creative approach differs from traditional historical biography in that it explores a variety of \"life histories\" and shows us how they become invaluable windows into the past.
Following her introduction, \"The Practice of History,\" Brown opens windows on the history of South Asia. She begins with the life history of an educational institution, Balliol College, Oxford, and tracks the interrelationship between Britain and India through the lives of the British and Indian men who were educated there. She then demonstrates the significance of family life history, showing that by observing patterns of family life over several generations, it is possible to gain insight into the experiences of groups of people who rarely left historical documents about themselves, particularly South Asian women. Finally, Brown uses the life history of two prominent individuals, Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, to examine questions about the nature of Indian nationalism and the emergent Indian state.
Editions of Windows into the Past
- Paperback
- ISBN 2009027703
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780268022174
- PDF
- ISBN 9780268075750
Read an Excerpt
Judith M. Brown, one of the leading historians of South Asia, provides an original and thought-provoking strategy for conducting and presenting historical research in her latest book, Windows into the Past. Brown looks at how varieties of \"life history\" that focus on the lives of institutions and families, as well as individuals, offer a broad and rich means of studying history. Her distinctively creative approach differs from traditional historical biography in that it explores a variety of \"life histories\" and shows us how they become invaluable windows into the past.
Following her introduction, \"The Practice of History,\" Brown opens windows on the history of South Asia. She begins with the life history of an educational institution, Balliol College, Oxford, and tracks the interrelationship between Britain and India through the lives of the British and Indian men who were educated there. She then demonstrates the significance of family life history, showing that by observing patterns of family life over several generations, it is possible to gain insight into the experiences of groups of people who rarely left historical documents about themselves, particularly South Asian women. Finally, Brown uses the life history of two prominent individuals, Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, to examine questions about the nature of Indian nationalism and the emergent Indian state.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Windows into the Past about?
Judith M. Brown, one of the leading historians of South Asia, provides an original and thought-provoking strategy for conducting and presenting historical research in her latest book, Windows into the Past. Brown looks at how varieties of \"life history\" that focus on the lives of institutions and families, as well as individuals, offer a broad and rich means of studying history. Her distinctively creative approach differs from traditional historical biography in that it explores a variety of \"life histories\" and shows us how they become invaluable windows into the past.
Following her introduction, \"The Practice of History,\" Brown opens windows on the history of South Asia. She begins with the life history of an educational institution, Balliol College, Oxford, and tracks the interrelationship between Britain and India through the lives of the British and Indian men who were educated there. She then demonstrates the significance of family life history, showing that by observing patterns of family life over several generations, it is possible to gain insight into the experiences of groups of people who rarely left historical documents about themselves, particularly South Asian women. Finally, Brown uses the life history of two prominent individuals, Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, to examine questions about the nature of Indian nationalism and the emergent Indian state.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Windows into the Past?
History and Archaeology > History > Asian history
Where can I read a sample of Windows into the Past?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/2009027703
Is Windows into the Past part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series Critical Problems in History
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Windows into the Past?
Judith Brown
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Windows into the Past is available as paperback(ISBN 2009027703) and paperback(ISBN 9780268022174) and pdf(ISBN 9780268075750)
Where can I buy Windows into the Past online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy Windows into the Past from below
Where can I buy Windows into the Past?