Sanskrit Drama: Key People, Theories & Comparisons PDF

**Key People** - **Kalidasa**: Renowned Sanskrit dramatist known for works like \'Abhijñāna Shākuntala\' and \'Malavikāgnimitra\', celebrated for his lyrical poetry and rich character development. - **Bhasa**: An early Sanskrit playwright whose works, such as \'Swapnavasavadatta\',...

**Key People** - **Kalidasa**: Renowned Sanskrit dramatist known for works like \'Abhijñāna Shākuntala\' and \'Malavikāgnimitra\', celebrated for his lyrical poetry and rich character development. - **Bhasa**: An early Sanskrit playwright whose works, such as \'Swapnavasavadatta\', often broke traditional conventions and included tragic endings. - **Bhavabhuti**: A prominent dramatist known for his intense and philosophical plays, including \'Malati Madhava\' and \'Mahaviracharita\', focusing on themes of heroism and sacrifice. - **Sudraka**: Known for \'Mrichchhakatika\' (The Little Clay Cart), which blends romance, humor, and social commentary. **Fundamental Theories** Theory/Concept Description ----------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Dramatic Structure** Sanskrit drama typically follows a five-act structure, including Mukha (origin), Pratimukha (incident), Garbha (germ), Vimarsa (crisis), and Nirvahana (completion). **Influence of Vedic Traditions** Indian drama evolved from Vedic rituals and texts, incorporating elements of dialogue and performance from ancient traditions. **Key Differences Between Greek and Indian Drama** - **Absence of Tragedy**: Indian drama lacks the tragic elements commonly found in Greek drama. - **Three Unities**: Greek drama adheres to the Three Unities of time, place, and action, while Indian drama allows for more flexibility in these aspects. - **Role of Dance and Song**: Dance and song are integral to Indian drama, whereas they are not present in Greek drama. **Key Playwrights and Their Works** Playwright Notable Works Critical Analysis ---------------- ------------------------------------------------ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ **Kalidasa** \'Abhijñāna Shākuntala\', \'Malavikāgnimitra\' Celebrated for lyrical poetry and emotional depth, exploring themes of love and duty. **Bhasa** \'Swapnavasavadatta\', \'Uru-bhanga\' Known for innovative storytelling and sympathetic portrayals of traditionally villainous characters. **Bhavabhuti** \'Malati Madhava\', \'Mahaviracharita\' Focuses on heroism and the supernatural, often omitting comic elements. **Sudraka** \'Mrichchhakatika\' Combines romance and humor with social commentary, showcasing innovative narrative styles. **Facts to Memorize** - Kalidasa: Renowned for \'Abhijñānaśākuntala\' - Bharata Muni: Author of the \'Natyashastra\' - Key Elements of Rasa: Vibhava, Anubhava, Vyabhichari Bhava, Sthayi Bhava - Major Types of Plays in Natyashastra: Rupaka (Major) and Uparupaka (Minor) - Prominent Playwrights: Kalidasa, Bhasa, Bhavabhuti, Sudraka - Sanskrit Drama: Typically organized into five acts **Reference Information** - Natyashastra: The foundational text for Indian drama, outlining rules and aesthetics. - Rasa: The aesthetic experience in drama, crucial for audience engagement. - Major Themes in Sanskrit Drama: Love, heroism, supernatural elements, and moral dilemmas. **Concept Comparisons** Aspect Greek Drama Indian Drama ----------------------- ----------------------- ------------------------------------------ Tragedy Central theme Lacks tragic endings Structure Follows Three Unities Flexible structure, spans time and space Role of Dance/Song Minimal role Integral to performances Audience Broader appeal Limited to upper castes Supernatural Elements Rarely included Commonly featured **Cause and Effect** Cause Effect ----------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------------- Greek Invasion Influenced Indian drama\'s structure and themes Development of Natyashastra Codified rules for Indian drama, leading to formalization Influence of Vedic texts Established early dramatic elements in Indian culture