The classical accounts of Greek and Roman writers; and subsequently; the works of Chinese pilgrims portrayed the splendour of civilization in ancient India. By the seventh century; the world scenario had altered significantly with the advent of Islam and the attendant era of Arab expansion. The age of Arab travellers; geographers; merchants and historians commenced with the Islamic ascendancy. India was then at a high point in her intellectual and cultural attainments. The Arabs transmitted knowledge of Indian numerals; mathematics; philosophy and logic; mysticism; ethics; statecraft; military science; medicine; astronomy and astrology to the outside world. Arab travellers described the grandeur and wealth of the kings of India; singling out for special mention the Palas; the Gurjara Pratiharas and the Rashtrakutas. Politically; while north India was being subjected to Arab and Turkish invasions which culminated in the establishment of the Delhi Sultanate in A.D. 1206; the south moved on a different trajectory. In the last quarter of the tenth century; the mighty Cholas on the Coromandel Coast replaced the Rashtrakutas as the paramount kings of India. By A.D. 1200; the Chola kingdom had withered away. In A.D. 1336; was established the Vijayanagar kingdom; which stood as a bulwark against Muslim attacks from the north for over two centuries. Meanwhile; several European missions and missionaries undertook the journey to China; visiting India en route; or on their return journey. European merchants took advantage of the land routes opened by the Mongol conquests and some of them managed to visit India. Besides the works of European travellers; traders and merchants; several Chinese accounts of India are also available from the twelfth century. Selected Stories of Honoré de Balzac by Honoré de Balzac: In this collection, Honoré de Balzac presents a selection of his acclaimed short stories, showcasing his incredible talent for vivid storytelling and character development. With its rich language and engaging narratives, this book is a must-read for fans of classical literature. Key Aspects of the Book "Selected Stories of Honoré de Balzac": Collection of Short Stories: The book features a collection of acclaimed short stories by Honoré de Balzac. Vivid Storytelling and Character Development: The stories showcase Balzac's incredible talent for vivid storytelling and character development. Useful for Literature Enthusiasts: The book is useful for fans of classical literature and those interested in the works of Balzac. Honoré de Balzac was a French novelist and playwright who is regarded as one of the greatest writers of Western literature. His book, Selected Stories of Honoré de Balzac, is highly regarded for its captivating storytelling and rich language.