We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.
Pulkit Aggarwal

Under this module we will be covering upon the various empires and their rulers such as the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal empire covered under the 'Medieval History of India'. So, whenever we are studying upon Medieval India, it's not only about the dark ages, it's not only about the degradation of the Indian Society or the decimation of the Hindus. Instead, Medieval India is much more to that. In fact, Medieval India is very vibrant bedrock of the cultural ideas which were coming from various parts of the world and also from various parts of India like the 'Sufi tradition', 'Bhakti movement' etc. along with various other ideas. That will give us a totally newer perspective to History Writing and Reading.

Read more

Under this module we will be covering upon the various empires and their rulers such as the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal empire covered under the 'Medieval History of India'. So, whenever we are studying upon Medieval India, it's not only about the dark ages, it's not only about the degradation of the Indian Society or the decimation of the Hindus. Instead, Medieval India is much more to that. In fact, Medieval India is very vibrant bedrock of the cultural ideas which were coming from various parts of the world and also from various parts of India like the 'Sufi tradition', 'Bhakti movement' etc. along with various other ideas. That will give us a totally newer perspective to History Writing and Reading.

In this module, I have tried to focus upon the important issues, like for example, how exactly the transition between the Ancient Indian History and the Medieval Indian History took place i.e. after the death of Harshvardhan. Then I have also tried to understood how the Islamic invasions were happening in India and with their coming in India, how exactly the political dynamics entirely changed.

Therefore, we at 'The Saviour Academy' will adopt a very holistic approach towards studying History. Plan to spend two to four hours per week for five weeks on the course, which includes videos, text and non-graded assessments. Then show off your new skills and knowledge with an impressive final project.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Medieval history of india
  • Bhakti movement, sufi movement, mughal rulers
  • Indian society and decimation of hindus
  • Islamic invasions on india

Syllabus

AN INTRODUCTION TO DELHI SULTANATE
DELHI SULTANATE
SHAMSASUD-DIN-ILTUTMISH
GHYASUDDIN BALBAN
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, which are pivotal periods that shaped the cultural and political landscape of the Indian subcontinent
Examines the Bhakti and Sufi movements, offering insights into the cultural and religious synthesis that occurred during the medieval period
Investigates the transition from ancient to medieval Indian history, focusing on the period after Harshvardhan and the subsequent Islamic invasions
Requires two to four weekly to complete, which may be difficult for learners with limited time to dedicate to studying history
Adopts a holistic approach to studying history, which may help learners develop a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of the era

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
Save

Reviews summary

Exploring medieval india holistically

According to students, this course provides an insightful overview of Medieval Indian History, particularly focusing on the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. The course promises and seems to deliver a holistic approach that moves beyond traditional narratives, highlighting cultural ideas like the Bhakti and Sufi movements and offering a newer perspective. Structured over five weeks with videos, text, and assessments, it covers key rulers and transitions. While presented as a broad exploration, the time commitment suggests it serves primarily as an introduction, which may mean less in-depth coverage on specific topics compared to more extensive studies.
Includes videos, text, and assessments.
"The format includes videos, text, and assessments, which helps structure the learning."
"The non-graded assessments were useful checks on understanding."
"The final project seems like a good way to consolidate knowledge."
Focuses on Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire.
"The course covers the key empires and rulers like the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire."
"It focuses on important transitions and how Islamic invasions changed the political dynamics."
"Specific rulers from the syllabus like Akbar and Aurangzeb are covered."
Offers an overview suitable for beginners.
"It seems designed as a good starting point, manageable within five weeks at 2-4 hours."
"While it focuses on important issues, it feels like an introduction rather than deep dive."
"Good for beginners, but those seeking in-depth scholarly analysis might find it too brief."
Focus on Bhakti, Sufi, and cultural ideas.
"I enjoyed learning about the Sufi tradition and Bhakti movement alongside the politics."
"The focus on cultural ideas coming from different parts of the world and India was very interesting."
"These cultural aspects added a lot of richness to the course content."
Provides a broader view of the era.
"I appreciated the holistic approach, showing Medieval India is much more than just invasions and decline."
"The course delivers on its promise of a very holistic approach to history."
"It gives you a totally newer perspective on reading and writing history."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Indian History in Medieval Times with these activities:
The History of India, as Told by Its Own Historians. The Muhammadan Period
Provide primary source context for the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Select chapters focusing on rulers covered in the course.
  • Read and take notes on key events and perspectives.
Review Ancient Indian History
Strengthen foundational knowledge of Ancient Indian History to better understand the transitions into the Medieval period.
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous courses on Ancient India.
  • Focus on the political and social structures.
  • Identify key differences between Ancient and Medieval India.
Create a Timeline of Delhi Sultanate Rulers
Visualize the reigns of Delhi Sultanate rulers to better understand their chronology and relationships.
Show steps
  • Research the reigns of each Delhi Sultanate ruler.
  • Create a timeline with key events and dates.
  • Include brief descriptions of each ruler's accomplishments.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Discuss the Impact of Islamic Invasions
Engage in discussions with peers to explore the multifaceted impact of Islamic invasions on India.
Show steps
  • Form a study group with classmates.
  • Research different perspectives on the invasions.
  • Share and discuss findings with the group.
Write a Short Essay on the Bhakti Movement
Deepen understanding of the Bhakti Movement by researching and writing an essay on its key figures and impact.
Show steps
  • Research the key figures and tenets of the Bhakti Movement.
  • Analyze its impact on Indian society and culture.
  • Write a well-structured essay summarizing your findings.
Mughal India: Art, Culture and Empire
Explore the artistic and cultural achievements of the Mughal Empire.
View Melania on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of the book.
  • Focus on chapters related to art, architecture, and culture.
  • Take notes on key artistic and cultural developments.
Presentation on Mughal Empire Administration
Consolidate knowledge of the Mughal Empire by creating a presentation on its administrative structure.
Show steps
  • Research the Mughal administrative system.
  • Create a presentation outlining key features.
  • Include visuals and examples to illustrate concepts.
  • Present your findings to classmates or colleagues.

Career center

Learners who complete Indian History in Medieval Times will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Historian
A historian researches, analyzes, and interprets the past. This career often requires advanced degrees. Medieval Indian history is a significant area of study, and this course on Indian History in Medieval Times provides a foundational understanding of the empires, rulers, and cultural movements of that period. The course's focus on the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, as well as the Bhakti and Sufi movements, helps to provide a solid base for anyone interested in specializing in this era. The course's holistic approach to studying history, combined with its exploration of the transition from Ancient to Medieval India, may be especially valuable to aspiring historians.
History Teacher
A history teacher educates students about the past, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times may be particularly useful for teachers who cover this period in their curriculum. The course's exploration of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, as well as the Bhakti and Sufi movements, helps to provide a well-rounded understanding of the era. The course's holistic approach to studying history may inform a teacher's pedagogical approach. The framework the course provides helps when teaching about Medieval India.
Archivist
An archivist appraises, collects, organizes, preserves, and provides access to historical documents and records. Knowledge of specific historical periods and regions is vital in this role. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times offers valuable insights into the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. The course's coverage of the Bhakti and Sufi movements may enhance an archivist's ability to understand the cultural context of historical materials. This course helps build a foundation in Medieval Indian history, which may be beneficial to archivists working with relevant collections.
Museum curator
A museum curator manages collections, conducts research, develops exhibits, and educates the public about specific topics. A deep understanding of history is essential. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times helps provide essential knowledge about the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire and provides cultural context with its exploration of the Bhakti and Sufi movements. The course's focus on the transition from Ancient to Medieval India helps to provide a framework for understanding historical developments. This course may be particularly helpful when curating exhibits related to Medieval India.
Historical Consultant
A historical consultant provides expertise on historical matters to various organizations, such as film production companies, museums, or government agencies. A deep understanding of specific historical periods is required. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times offers a specialized knowledge base for consulting on projects related to the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, or other aspects of Medieval India. The course's attention to the Bhakti and Sufi movements and the political dynamics of the era helps build a comprehensive understanding, which may enhance your credibility as a consultant.
Librarian
A librarian manages library resources and assists patrons in finding information. This course, focusing on Indian History in Medieval Times, offers specific knowledge of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire and may be particularly helpful for librarians who specialize in history or South Asian studies. The course's exploration of the Bhakti and Sufi movements adds context to historical texts. This course helps to enhance a librarian's ability to curate relevant collections and assist researchers.
Curriculum Developer
A curriculum developer designs and develops educational materials and curricula for schools or organizations. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times may be particularly useful for curriculum developers creating content related to this period. The course's coverage of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, as well as the Bhakti and Sufi movements, offers a structured framework for designing comprehensive and engaging lessons. You may find the holistic approach to studying history helpful for creating well-rounded educational materials.
Genealogist
A genealogist researches and traces family histories. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times may be beneficial for genealogists whose clients have roots in India during the Delhi Sultanate or Mughal Empire. The course's coverage of the Bhakti and Sufi movements and the broader social and political context helps to provide a deeper understanding of potential ancestral backgrounds. This course may be particularly useful for understanding historical records and societal structures relevant to genealogical research.
Archaeologist
An archaeologist excavates and studies material remains of past human life and activities. This career typically requires advanced degrees. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times provides a contextual understanding of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, which may enhance an archaeologist's ability to interpret findings from that period. The course's exploration of social and cultural movements helps provide a deeper understanding of the people who created the artifacts being studied. This course helps improve the analysis and interpretation of archaeological discoveries from Medieval India.
Documentary Filmmaker
A documentary filmmaker researches, writes, and produces films that explore real-world subjects. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times provides essential background knowledge for filmmakers creating documentaries about the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, or related topics. The course's exploration of the Bhakti and Sufi movements and the transition from Ancient to Medieval India helps provide a comprehensive understanding of the historical context. This course may be particularly helpful when crafting compelling and accurate historical narratives.
Journalist
A journalist investigates and reports on current events or historical topics. A journalist may rely on knowledge of the past. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times provides a foundation for reporting on historical events related to the Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire, or the cultural and religious movements of the era. The course's holistic approach and focus on the transition from Ancient to Medieval India may help provide context for contemporary issues. This course helps in providing historical background when reporting on relevant topics.
Travel Writer
A travel writer researches and writes about destinations, often focusing on their history and culture. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times may be particularly useful for travel writers covering destinations in India that were significant during the Delhi Sultanate or Mughal Empire. The course's exploration of the Bhakti and Sufi movements enriches your ability to provide insightful commentary on historical sites. This course enhances the depth and accuracy of your travel writing.
Political Scientist
A political scientist studies the theory and practice of politics and government. This can include historical analysis of the roots of modern political systems. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times may be valuable for political scientists interested in the historical development of political structures and social dynamics in India. The course's coverage of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire, as well as the impact of Islamic invasions, provides a foundation for understanding the evolution of Indian politics. This course may be beneficial when researching the historical context of contemporary political issues.
Policy Analyst
A policy analyst researches and analyzes policy issues, developing recommendations for government or organizations. Understanding the historical context of current policies is crucial. This course on Indian History in Medieval Times may be useful for policy analysts working on issues related to South Asia, especially those with roots in the Delhi Sultanate or Mughal Empire. The course's examination of political dynamics and cultural movements may provide valuable insights into the historical underpinnings of current challenges. This course helps to inform policy recommendations with a historical perspective.
Translator
A translator converts written materials from one language to another. This course, focusing on Indian History in Medieval Times, offers specific knowledge of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire and may be particularly helpful for translators working with historical texts from that period. The course's exploration of the Bhakti and Sufi movements adds context to historical terms and concepts. This course may enhance a translator's ability to accurately convey the meaning of historical documents.

Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Indian History in Medieval Times.
This multi-volume work compiles historical accounts of India written by Muslim historians during the medieval period. It provides valuable primary source material and insights into the perspectives and interpretations of the era. Reading selections from this book will allow students to engage directly with the voices of the time, enriching their understanding of the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. It is particularly useful for understanding the cultural and political dynamics from the perspective of the rulers and chroniclers of the time.

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.
Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser