Advanced Placement (AP) World History Practice Exam 2026 - Free AP World History Practice Questions and Study Guide

The conclusion that the stages of life highlight the persistence of patriarchy in Classical India is supported by the historical context surrounding gender roles during this time. In Classical India, societal structures were heavily influenced by patriarchal norms, which placed men in dominant positions in both public and private spheres.

Men were typically the primary decision-makers and had more access to education, political power, and resources. In contrast, women's roles were often confined to the domestic sphere, handling household duties and caregiving. Even during the different stages of life, women were largely expected to fulfill roles that supported men rather than having independent significance.

The stages of life in Hindu philosophy, known as the Ashramas, delineate a male-centered view of life's phases, often prioritizing the roles that men play in society while relegating women to supportive positions. For example, the stage of "Grihastha" (householder) is where men are expected to contribute to society through work and family leadership, whereas women's contributions are not recognized as equally significant.

Overall, the information reflects a clear continuity of patriarchal values, illustrating how gender roles were defined and sustained through cultural and societal practices in Classical India.