The correct option is (c) 1 and 3 only.
Explanation
Ashoka’s edicts represent the earliest decipherable corpus of written documents in Indian history. These inscriptions were strategically placed on rocks and pillars to communicate the Emperor’s policy of Dhamma directly to his subjects.Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: Ashoka was the first ruler in Indian history who attempted to take his message directly to the people through inscriptions. While he may have drawn inspiration from Achaemenid (Persian) rulers like Darius, his use of inscriptions for moral instruction was unique.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: Most of Ashoka’s inscriptions were composed in the Prakrit language, specifically the Magadhi dialect, to ensure they were understood by the common masses. Sanskrit was not used in Ashokan edicts; the first major Sanskrit inscription appeared much later (e.g., the Junagadh Rock Inscription of Rudradaman I).
- Statement 3 is Correct: The script used for the vast majority of Ashoka’s inscriptions was Brahmi. However, regional variations existed based on the local literacy context: Kharosthi was used in the northwest (e.g., Mansehra and Shahbazgarhi), and Greek and Aramaic were used in Afghanistan (e.g., Kandahar).
Key Takeaway: Ashoka prioritized accessibility by using the vernacular Prakrit language and the Brahmi script for the majority of his edicts, reserving scripts like Kharosthi, Greek, and Aramaic only for specific frontier regions.