Tracing the Evolution of Governance and Social Order from Ancient Manuscripts to Medieval Statecraft

Abstract: This article delves into the foundational aspects of ancient and medieval governance, focusing on the intricacies of statecraft, societal norms, and legal frameworks as outlined in seminal texts such as the Manusmriti and Kautilyas Arthashastra. By exploring the evolution of language systems from Homo habilis to Homo sapiens, and the subsequent development of complex human societies, it sheds light on the role of divine kingship, the codification of social duties Raja Dharma, and the intricacies of administration, taxation, and military strategy. The Manusmritis religious undertones and its implications on the daily life and governance, contrasted with Kautilyas pragmatic approach to statecraft, provide a nuanced understanding of the ancient legal and societal order. Through examining the blend of spirituality and practical governance, this article reveals how ancient texts influenced the societal hierarchy, legal disputes, and the overall structure of governance, offering insights into the historical trajectory that shaped the early foundations of modern state and society.

Keywords: Manusmriti, Kautilyas Arthashastra, Raja Dharma, Ancient Governance, Social Order

Edition: Volume 13 Issue 4, April 2024,

Pages: 157 - 164