6. Civilising the “Native”, Educating the Nation
The chapter explores the impact of British colonial rule on education in India, highlighting the contrasting views of British officials on the need to civilize the natives through education. It discusses the rise of Orientalism and the push for English education, alongside the reactions of Indian thinkers like Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore, who envisioned alternative educational systems that emphasized moral values, national pride, and a deeper connection to Indian culture.
Enroll to start learning
You've not yet enrolled in this course. Please enroll for free to listen to audio lessons, classroom podcasts and take practice test.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- British colonial rule had a dual motive in India: territorial control and cultural mission.
- The Orientalist perspective valued ancient Indian texts, while critics like Macaulay and Mill prioritized practical education centered on Western knowledge.
- Indian thinkers, such as Gandhi and Tagore, advocated for education that fostered national identity, moral character, and creativity.
Key Concepts
- -- Orientalism
- A scholarly approach focusing on the study of Eastern cultures, languages, and texts by Western scholars, often with a sense of superiority.
- -- English Education Act of 1835
- An act that established English as the medium of instruction in higher education in India, reducing support for Oriental institutions.
- -- Pathshala
- Traditional village schools in India that provided informal education with a flexible curriculum before British rule.
- -- Moral Education
- Education aimed at developing ethical and moral values, often emphasizing Christian teachings during the missionary period.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.