Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The 19th century in Bengal witnessed a surge of socio-religious reform movements, spurred by the growing awareness of Western education and the perceived shortcomings of traditional Indian society. Among these, the Young Bengal movement, a group of radical thinkers and reformers, emerged as a significant force for change. Flourishing primarily between 1826 and 1836, this movement challenged established norms and advocated for progressive ideas. The movement’s intellectual core was nurtured by two prominent educators, Henry Derozio and David Hare, whose contrasting pedagogical approaches played a pivotal role in shaping the minds of the Young Bengal group. This answer will detail the period of the movement’s flourishing and analyze the distinct contributions of these two influential teachers.
The Period of Young Bengal
The Young Bengal movement gained momentum in the 1820s and reached its peak between 1826 and 1836. This period coincided with the early stages of British colonial rule and the introduction of Western education through institutions like Hindu College (founded in 1817). The movement was largely confined to the students of Hindu College and a few other educational institutions in Calcutta. The death of Henry Derozio in 1831 marked a turning point, leading to a gradual decline in the movement’s intensity, though its ideas continued to influence subsequent reform movements.
Henry Derozio: The Radical Teacher
Henry Derozio, a half-Indian (Portuguese-Indian) teacher at Hindu College, is considered the intellectual father of the Young Bengal movement. Appointed in 1826, he quickly gained popularity among students due to his unconventional teaching methods and progressive ideas.
- Teaching Methodology: Derozio encouraged critical thinking, debate, and independent inquiry. He moved away from rote learning and emphasized the importance of reason and logic.
- Curriculum: He introduced his students to Western liberal thought, including philosophy, history, and political science. He encouraged them to question traditional beliefs and authority.
- Influence: Derozio’s teachings instilled a spirit of rebellion and reform among his students, who formed the core of the Young Bengal group. They advocated for social and political reforms, including the abolition of Sati, the promotion of women’s education, and the introduction of a more representative political system.
- Radicalism: Derozio’s approach was considered radical for its time, as it challenged the established social and religious order.
David Hare: The Pragmatic Reformer
David Hare, a Scottish educator and philanthropist, played a crucial role in establishing several educational institutions in Bengal, including the Hare School (1818) and the Hare College (1830). Unlike Derozio, Hare adopted a more pragmatic and gradualist approach to reform.
- Teaching Methodology: Hare focused on practical education and vocational training. He believed in providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the modern world.
- Curriculum: He emphasized science, mathematics, and engineering, alongside traditional subjects. He aimed to create a skilled workforce that could contribute to the economic development of Bengal.
- Influence: Hare’s institutions provided education to a wider range of students, including those from lower social classes. He believed in working within the existing system to bring about gradual change.
- Pragmatism: Hare’s approach was more cautious and less confrontational than Derozio’s. He sought to reconcile Western education with Indian traditions and values.
A Comparative Analysis
The contrasting approaches of Derozio and Hare reflected their different backgrounds and philosophies. Derozio, with his own marginalized identity, was a passionate advocate for radical change, while Hare, representing the established colonial administration, favored a more pragmatic and gradualist approach.
| Feature | Henry Derozio | David Hare |
|---|---|---|
| Approach to Reform | Radical, confrontational | Pragmatic, gradualist |
| Teaching Methodology | Critical thinking, debate | Practical education, vocational training |
| Curriculum Emphasis | Philosophy, history, political science | Science, mathematics, engineering |
| Target Audience | Elite students of Hindu College | Wider range of students, including lower classes |
| Impact on Movement | Inspired the Young Bengal movement’s radical ideas | Contributed to the spread of education and skill development |
While Derozio’s influence was more immediate and dramatic, inspiring a generation of radical thinkers, Hare’s contribution was more long-lasting, laying the foundation for a more widespread and accessible education system in Bengal. Both educators, however, played vital roles in the intellectual awakening of Bengal during the 19th century.
Conclusion
The Young Bengal movement, flourishing between 1826 and 1836, represented a crucial phase in the intellectual history of Bengal. Henry Derozio and David Hare, though differing in their approaches, were instrumental in shaping the minds of the reformers. Derozio’s radicalism ignited a spirit of rebellion, while Hare’s pragmatism fostered practical education and skill development. Their combined efforts laid the groundwork for subsequent socio-religious reform movements and contributed significantly to the modernization of Bengal. Their legacies continue to inspire critical thinking and a commitment to social progress.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.