The Periplus of the Erythraean Sea is an anonymous Greco-Roman navigational and geographical text, written in the 1st century CE, that describes the Indian Ocean and the surrounding lands, from the Red Sea to the Malay Peninsula. It is a valuable source of information about ancient trade routes, ports, and products.
The Periplus is divided into two parts. The first part describes the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula, and the second part describes the Indian Ocean and the lands around it. The text is full of detailed information about the ports, products, and peoples of the region. It is an invaluable resource for historians and archaeologists studying the ancient world.
The Periplus is also a valuable source of information about the history of trade. It describes the goods that were traded between the Roman Empire and India, and the routes that were used to transport these goods. The text also provides information about the prices of goods, and the taxes that were levied on trade.
The Periplus is a unique and valuable source of information about the ancient world. It is a must-read for anyone interested in history, geography, or trade.
Here is a brief explanation of each option:
- Option (a): Ancient trade routes. The Periplus is a valuable source of information about ancient trade routes. It describes the ports, products, and peoples of the region, and provides information about the goods that were traded between the Roman Empire and India, and the routes that were used to transport these goods.
- Option (b): Society in Kerala. The Periplus does not provide much information about society in Kerala. It does mention that Kerala is a wealthy region that produces pepper, ginger, and other spices, but it does not provide any further details about the society or culture of Kerala.
- Option (c): Political dynasties. The Periplus does not provide much information about political dynasties. It does mention that the region is ruled by a number of different kings, but it does not provide any further details about these kings or their dynasties.
- Option (d): Religious beliefs. The Periplus does not provide much information about religious beliefs. It does mention that the region is home to a number of different religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, but it does not provide any further details about these religions or their beliefs.