Q.Read the case given below carefully and answer the questions that follow : The accessible emperor In the account of his experiences, Monserrate, who was a member of the first Jesuit Mission, says : It is hard to exaggerate how accessible he (Akbar) makes himself to all who wish audience of him. For he creates an opportunity almost every day for any of the common people or of the nobles to see him and to converse with him; and he endeavours to show himself pleasant – spoken and affable rather than severe towards all who come to speak with him. It is very remarkable how great an effect this courtesy and affability has in attaching him to the minds of his subjects. (8.1) Examine the impact of Akbar's accessibility on the minds of his subjects.
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Start your 14-day free trial to unlock the full solution →Akbar’s daily accessibility and affability created deep loyalty among his subjects, while his invitation to the Jesuit Mission reflected his intellectual curiosity and policy of religious dialogue. He facilitated meetings by creating daily opportunities for both common people and nobles to see and converse with him.
The Concept and Intuition
This question is about understanding how a ruler’s personal conduct can shape political legitimacy and public sentiment. Akbar’s approach was not merely about being “nice” — it was a deliberate strategy of statecraft. By making himself accessible, he broke the traditional barrier between the monarch and the people, creating a sense of direct connection that fostered loyalty. The Jesuit Mission invitation, meanwhile, shows his broader intellectual project: he didn’t just tolerate other religions, he actively sought to understand them.
The passage from Monserrate gives us a first-hand European observer’s account, which is valuable because it captures what contemporaries found remarkable about Akbar’s rule.
Step-by-Step Solution
8.1 Examine the impact of Akbar’s accessibility on the minds of his subjects. (1 mark)
1. The passage directly states the effect: “It is very remarkable how great an effect this courtesy and affability has in attaching him to the minds of his subjects.” The key word here is attaching — Akbar’s accessibility created an emotional bond between the ruler and the ruled.
2. This attachment worked because Akbar’s behaviour contradicted the expected image of an emperor. A Mughal emperor was supposed to be distant, majestic, and unapproachable. By being “pleasant-spoken and affable rather than severe,” Akbar made subjects feel valued and heard. This psychological shift turned passive obedience into active loyalty. …
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