Read the following excerpts carefully and answer the questions that follow.

[This is an excerpt from the Mahaparinibbana Sutta, part of the Sutta Pitaka:]

As the Buddha lay dying, Ananda asked him: “What are we to do Lord, with the remains of the Tathagata (another name for the Buddha)?”

The Buddha replied: “Hinder not yourselves Ananda by honouring the remains of the Tathagata. Be zealous, be intent on your own good.”

But when pressed further, the Buddha said: “At the four crossroads they should erect a thupa (Pali for stupa) to the Tathagata. And whosoever shall there place garlands or perfume ... or make a salutation there, or become in its presence calm of heart, that shall long be to them for a profit and joy.”

A. Why were the stupas built?

B. What did Asoka do with the relics of Buddha?

C. Describe the structure of the stupas.