A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): a contribution to the history of India By: Fernão Nunes (16th cent.)
In "A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): a contribution to the history of India," Fernão Nunes provides a profound exploration of the Vijayanagara Empire. Set against the backdrop of 16th-century India, the book delves into the historical and cultural significance of this forgotten empire, shedding light on its rise, accomplishments, and eventual decline. Nunes' extensive research and meticulous attention to detail are evident throughout the book, making it a valuable resource for both history enthusiasts and scholars. He demonstrates a deep understanding of the Vijayanagara Empire, presenting a comprehensive account of its political systems, architecture, economy, and religious practices. Through meticulous analysis of various historical sources, including travelogues, inscriptions, and chronicles, the author unravels the complex tapestry of Vijayanagara's reign. One aspect that distinguishes this book is its ability to transport readers to the vibrant world of the Vijayanagara Empire. Nunes skillfully paints vivid pictures of the empire's grandeur, describing its magnificent temples, bustling markets, and opulent palaces. His descriptions are so vivid that readers can almost feel the bustling energy and immerse themselves in the empire's rich cultural heritage. Furthermore, Nunes delves into the socio-cultural dynamics of the Vijayanagara Empire, exploring its unique blend of Hindu and Islamic influences. He examines the empire's interactions with neighboring kingdoms, the impact of international trade, and the role of religion in shaping its ethos. By dissecting these intricate facets, the author offers readers a nuanced understanding of the empire's identity and its place within Indian history. However, there are instances where the book may be overwhelming for readers less familiar with Indian history. Nunes assumes a level of prior knowledge, occasionally omitting explanations that could assist those unacquainted with the time period. While this does not diminish the overall value of the book, it might pose a challenge for readers looking for a more introductory account of the Vijayanagara Empire. In conclusion, "A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): a contribution to the history of India" by Fernão Nunes is an exceptional work that revives the history of the Vijayanagara Empire. Nunes' comprehensive research, meticulous attention to detail, and evocative descriptions make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Indian history. It serves as a significant contribution to the understanding of an empire that played a vital role in shaping India's cultural heritage. First Page: This Etext Created by Jeroen Hellingman A Forgotten Empire: Vijayanagar; A Contribution to the History of India by Robert Sewell Preface The two Portuguese chronicles, a translation of which into English is now for the first time offered to the public, are contained in a vellum bound folio volume in the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris, amongst the manuscripts of which institution it bears the designation "PORT. NO. 65." The volume in question consists of copies of four original documents; the first two, written by Fernao Nuniz and Domingo Paes, being those translated below, the last two (at the end of the MS.) letters written from China about the year 1520 A.D. These will probably be published in translation by Mr. Donald Ferguson in the pages of the INDIAN ANTIQUARY. The first pair of original papers was sent with a covering letter by some one at Goa to some one in Europe. The names are not given, but there is every reason for believing that the recipient was the historian Barros in Lisbon. Both these papers are in the same handwriting, which fact since they were written by separate Portuguese merchants or travellers at Vijayanagar in different years, one, I believe, shortly subsequent to 1520 A.D., the latter not later than about 1536 or 1537 conclusively proves them to be copies of the originals, and not the originals themselves... Continue reading book >>

A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): a contribution to the history of India By: Fernão Nunes (16th cent.)

In "A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): a contribution to the history of India," Fernão Nunes provides a profound exploration of the Vijayanagara Empire. Set against the backdrop of 16th-century India, the book delves into the historical and cultural significance of this forgotten empire, shedding light on its rise, accomplishments, and eventual decline.

Nunes' extensive research and meticulous attention to detail are evident throughout the book, making it a valuable resource for both history enthusiasts and scholars. He demonstrates a deep understanding of the Vijayanagara Empire, presenting a comprehensive account of its political systems, architecture, economy, and religious practices. Through meticulous analysis of various historical sources, including travelogues, inscriptions, and chronicles, the author unravels the complex tapestry of Vijayanagara's reign.

One aspect that distinguishes this book is its ability to transport readers to the vibrant world of the Vijayanagara Empire. Nunes skillfully paints vivid pictures of the empire's grandeur, describing its magnificent temples, bustling markets, and opulent palaces. His descriptions are so vivid that readers can almost feel the bustling energy and immerse themselves in the empire's rich cultural heritage.

Furthermore, Nunes delves into the socio-cultural dynamics of the Vijayanagara Empire, exploring its unique blend of Hindu and Islamic influences. He examines the empire's interactions with neighboring kingdoms, the impact of international trade, and the role of religion in shaping its ethos. By dissecting these intricate facets, the author offers readers a nuanced understanding of the empire's identity and its place within Indian history.

However, there are instances where the book may be overwhelming for readers less familiar with Indian history. Nunes assumes a level of prior knowledge, occasionally omitting explanations that could assist those unacquainted with the time period. While this does not diminish the overall value of the book, it might pose a challenge for readers looking for a more introductory account of the Vijayanagara Empire.

In conclusion, "A Forgotten Empire (Vijayanagar): a contribution to the history of India" by Fernão Nunes is an exceptional work that revives the history of the Vijayanagara Empire. Nunes' comprehensive research, meticulous attention to detail, and evocative descriptions make this book an invaluable resource for anyone interested in Indian history. It serves as a significant contribution to the understanding of an empire that played a vital role in shaping India's cultural heritage.

First Page:

This Etext Created by Jeroen Hellingman

A Forgotten Empire: Vijayanagar; A Contribution to the History of India

by Robert Sewell

Preface

The two Portuguese chronicles, a translation of which into English is now for the first time offered to the public, are contained in a vellum bound folio volume in the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris, amongst the manuscripts of which institution it bears the designation "PORT. NO. 65." The volume in question consists of copies of four original documents; the first two, written by Fernao Nuniz and Domingo Paes, being those translated below, the last two (at the end of the MS.) letters written from China about the year 1520 A.D. These will probably be published in translation by Mr. Donald Ferguson in the pages of the INDIAN ANTIQUARY.

The first pair of original papers was sent with a covering letter by some one at Goa to some one in Europe. The names are not given, but there is every reason for believing that the recipient was the historian Barros in Lisbon.

Both these papers are in the same handwriting, which fact since they were written by separate Portuguese merchants or travellers at Vijayanagar in different years, one, I believe, shortly subsequent to 1520 A.D., the latter not later than about 1536 or 1537 conclusively proves them to be copies of the originals, and not the originals themselves... Continue reading book >>

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