An Analysis of the Sri Lankan Buddhist Monk during the British Colonial Period

Abstract

Changes in social institutions became widespread, extensive, and far-reaching since the British occupation of the whole Island. Although previously the country was invaded by the Portuguese and the Dutch, the implementation of the recommendations contained in the Colebrook Commission Report in the 19^th century propelled Sri Lanka into a rapid change in its social and economic progress. The establishment of the printing press during the time of British rule can be regarded as a profound social event in the history of Sri Lanka. The introduction of modern technology into the country should be recognized as the greatest contribution by the British. It can be pointed out that this knowledge of technology changed the traditional social structures prevailing in Sri Lankan society at the time. Poets began to depict the emerging contemporary society in poetry.

This paper examines:

• The nature of the disposition of monks,
• The power exercised by the monks, and
• How the lives of monks changed during the colonial period

It also shows how the Christians portrayed the Buddhist monks from their point of view, and their attitude towards Buddhist monks influenced the ordinary people. From this perspective, the poetical works of this period are analyzed. 

For this research paper, most materials used in this study have been obtained from publications and materials available at the Colombo Museum, the Department of Historical Documents in the main Library of the University of Peradeniya, the Asia and African Sections and Social Science Sections of the British Library in London.