Translations of Shakuntala and Other Works

"Translations of Shakuntala and Other Works" by Kalidasa is a collection of classical Indian poetry and drama likely written in the fifth century AD. This compilation showcases Kalidasa's renowned works, which include his famous play "Shakuntala," along with lesser-known dramas and poems that explore themes of love, nature, and divine intervention. The main character, Shakuntala, is presented as a strong yet tender figure who embarks on a romantic journey that intertwines with the divine and the earthly. The opening of the collection introduces readers to Kalidasa, providing insight into his life, the legends surrounding him, and his unparalleled influence on Sanskrit literature. It narrates a captivating legend about his rise from an uneducated ox-driver to a celebrated poet through divine intervention, revealing his deep connection to nature and the feminine spirit. The beginning also sets the stage for "Shakuntala," highlighting her beauty and innocence against the backdrop of a hermitage where the king first encounters her. The contrast between the natural beauty of the hermitage and the complexities of human emotions is deftly introduced, hinting at the unfolding drama of love and destiny. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Translated by Arthur W. Ryder. Reading ease score: 72.4 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read. Originally issued 2005-09-05. Transcribed by Juliet Sutherland, Jayam Subramanian and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team. This work is in the public domain in the United States. Sourced from Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/16659).