NCERT Class 12 History — Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings - Cultural Developments (c. 600 BCE - 600 CE)

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In the context of religious history, a "hagiography" is best described as:

Official previous-year question

Verified 1 Aug 2026.

Options

AA critical historical account
BA code of monastic rules
CA biography of a saint
DA philosophical debate

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Solution

The correct option is A biography of a saint.

Explanation

The term "hagiography" is derived from the Greek words hagios (holy) and graphia (writing). In religious history and literature, it specifically refers to the writing of the lives of saints or venerated religious figures.

Detailed Analysis

A critical historical account is incorrect: A hagiography is generally not a critical historical account. It is often devotional in nature, aiming to glorify the subject rather than provide an objective, critical analysis of their life. While they contain historical data, the primary purpose is spiritual edification.
A biography of a saint is correct: A hagiography is a biography of a saint or an ecclesiastical leader. These texts often recount the subject's spiritual journey, miracles, and virtues. In the Indian context, examples include the Periyapuranam (lives of Nayanars) or the Harshacharita (though a biography of a king, it shares stylistic elements). In Buddhism and Jainism, texts describing the lives of the Buddha (like the Buddhacharita) or Tirthankaras are hagiographical in style.
A code of monastic rules is incorrect: A code of monastic rules is distinct from a biography. For instance, in Buddhism, monastic rules are compiled in the Vinaya Pitaka.
A philosophical debate is incorrect: A philosophical debate involves dialectics and doctrinal arguments (e.g., Shastrartha), which is distinct from the narrative style of a biography.

Key Takeaway

Hagiography is a genre of literature that focuses on the lives, legends, and miracles of saints or holy persons, often characterized by an idealizing or reverent tone.

Your note

More from Chapter 4: Thinkers, Beliefs and Buildings - Cultural Developments (c. 600 BCE - 600 CE)

With reference to the Jaina monastic vows, consider the following statements: 1. Jaina monks and nuns took five vows, including observing celibacy. 2. The vow to abstain from possessing property was optional for nuns. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the development of Mahayana Buddhism, consider the following statements: 1. It strictly prohibited the worship of images of the Buddha. 2. It introduced the idea of a saviour who could ensure salvation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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In Jaina philosophy, the cycle of birth and rebirth is believed to be determined by:

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James Fergusson, an early modern art historian, interpreted the site of Sanchi primarily as a centre associated with which of the following forms of worship?

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With reference to the preservation of the Sanchi Stupa in the nineteenth century, consider the following statements: 1. The French and English showed no interest in the Sanchi Stupa. 2. Shahjehan Begum and Sultan Jehan Begum provided funds for the preservation of the site and the building of a museum. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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The correct option is A biography of a saint.

Explanation

Detailed Analysis

A critical historical account is incorrect: A hagiography is generally not a critical historical account. It is often devotional in nature, aiming to glorify the subject rather than provide an objective, critical analysis of their life. While they contain historical data, the primary purpose is spiritual edification.
A biography of a saint is correct: A hagiography is a biography of a saint or an ecclesiastical leader. These texts often recount the subject's spiritual journey, miracles, and virtues. In the Indian context, examples include the Periyapuranam (lives of Nayanars) or the Harshacharita (though a biography of a king, it shares stylistic elements). In Buddhism and Jainism, texts describing the lives of the Buddha (like the Buddhacharita) or Tirthankaras are hagiographical in style.
A code of monastic rules is incorrect: A code of monastic rules is distinct from a biography. For instance, in Buddhism, monastic rules are compiled in the Vinaya Pitaka.
A philosophical debate is incorrect: A philosophical debate involves dialectics and doctrinal arguments (e.g., Shastrartha), which is distinct from the narrative style of a biography.

Key Takeaway

Hagiography is a genre of literature that focuses on the lives, legends, and miracles of saints or holy persons, often characterized by an idealizing or reverent tone.