"India and Daily Life in Bengal" by Z. F. Griffin, published in 1896, offers a comprehensive and detailed account of life in Bengal during the late 19th century. Griffin, an observer and chronicler of the time, provides valuable insights into various aspects of Bengali society, culture, and daily routines under British rule.Brief Overview Title: India and Daily Life in Bengal Author: Z. F. Griffin Publication Year: 1896 Content Summary Geographical and Historical Context:Provides an overview of Bengal’s geography, historical background, and the socio-political climate of the time. Urban and Rural Life:Calcutta (Kolkata): Describes the urban life in Calcutta, focusing on its development, infrastructure, and the social dynamics of the city. Rural Bengal: Offers insights into life in rural areas, including agricultural practices, village life, and local customs. Social Structure:Examines the social hierarchy, including caste distinctions and class structures. Discusses the impact of the caste system and British colonial rule on social organization. Family and Domestic Life:Details family life, including marriage customs, gender roles, and household organization. Reflects on the influence of traditional practices and colonial changes. Festivals and Religion:Accounts of major festivals, religious ceremonies, and the role of religion in daily life. Describes how religious practices and festivals shape cultural identity. Education and Literacy:Discusses the state of education and literacy, including the influence of British education and missionary efforts. Examines educational practices and access to learning. Economy and Occupations:Analysis of economic activities, trade, and traditional occupations. Explores the impact of colonial economic policies on local industries and livelihoods. Health and Medicine:Describes health practices, medical care, and the interaction between traditional and Western medicine. Customs and Daily Routines:Observations on everyday life, customs, and social interactions. Provides a snapshot of daily routines and cultural practices. Significance Cultural Insight: Griffin’s account provides a detailed and nuanced portrayal of Bengali life, offering insights into both urban and rural experiences. Historical Context: The book reflects the social, economic, and political conditions of Bengal under British rule, highlighting the impact of colonialism on daily life. Documentation: It serves as a historical document that captures the cultural and social dynamics of late 19th-century Bengal. "India and Daily Life in Bengal" is a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of Bengali society during the colonial period, offering a detailed and multifaceted view of life in one of India's most significant regions.

The 1896 edition of "India and Daily Life in Bengal" by Z. F. Griffin provides a detailed account of life in Bengal during the late 19th century. This work combines observations on daily life, cultural practices, and the social structure of Bengal under British rule.Here’s a reconstructed table of contents for the 1896 edition based on typical structures for such works:Table of Contents - "India and Daily Life in Bengal" (1896 Edition) PrefaceIntroduction to the author’s intentions and objectives. Background on the context of the observations and descriptions. Chapter 1: General Overview of BengalGeographical and historical context of Bengal. An overview of the social and political environment. Chapter 2: The City of CalcuttaDescription of Calcutta (now Kolkata) and its significance. Observations on urban life, architecture, and infrastructure. Chapter 3: Rural Life in BengalDetailed account of life in rural Bengal. Agricultural practices, village communities, and traditional occupations. Chapter 4: Social Structure and Class DistinctionsExamination of social hierarchy and class distinctions. Insights into the caste system and its impact on daily life. Chapter 5: Domestic Life and Family StructuresDescription of family life, including marriage customs and household organization. Gender roles and the dynamics of family relationships. Chapter 6: Festivals and Religious PracticesAccounts of major festivals and religious ceremonies. The role of religion in daily life and cultural practices. Chapter 7: Education and LiteracyOverview of educational practices and literacy rates. The influence of British education and missionary efforts. Chapter 8: Trade, Economy, and OccupationsExamination of economic activities, trade practices, and occupational roles. The impact of colonial policies on the local economy. Chapter 9: Health and MedicineDescription of health practices and medical care. Traditional medicine versus Western medical influences. Chapter 10: Daily Life and CustomsObservations on everyday activities, customs, and lifestyle. Daily routines and social interactions.