Explain how the print media and newspapers became agencies of religious reform and public debate in India during the early 19th century.

OR

What were the social changes in the 10 century which Thomas Hardy wrote about in his novel Mayor of Casterbridge?

In an early 19^th century in India, the nation was struggling with the British regime as well as with own people, rituals, customs, etc.

1. The print media played an important role in reforming the orthodox religious culture.

2. The books published were read by people and created awareness about a well-educated society, equality.

3. The newspaper had articles that would criticize the practice of Sati, widow immolation, etc.

4. These ideas were circulated throughout, and people were also against these practices.

OR

The novel is about a grain merchant who becomes the Mayor of the farming town named Casterbridge.

The social changes depicted in the novel are:

1. Due to industrialisation, the small farmers with lands were disappearing as the big farmers bought machines and employed laborer.

2. The changing nature of the world; from being personalized to mechanized urban culture.