An Introduction to the Study of Indian Poetics

Contents: Preface. I. Introduction. 1. What is Meant by Indian Poetics? 2. A Historical Sketch of Indian Poetics. 3.  The Theoretical Framework of Indian Poetics. II. Kavya: Some Preliminary Considerations. 4. Meaning and Classification of Poetry (Kavya-Bheda). 5. The Definition of Poetry (Kavya-Laksana). 6.  Causes or Sources of Kavya (Kavya-Hetu). 7. The Purpose of Kavya (Kavya-Prayojana). III. The Problem of Meaning in Kavya. 8.  Power or Function of Words in Poetry. (Sabda-Sakti or Sabda-Vyapara/Sabda-Vrtti in Kavya). IV. Major Literary Theories. 9. The Alamkara Theory. 10. The Riti Theory. 11. The Dhvani Theory. 12.  The Rasa Theory. (i) Bharata’s Exposition of Rasa. (ii)  Interpretations of Bharata’s Rasasutra. 13. The Vakrokti Theory. 14. The Theory of Aucitya. V. Major Literary Concepts. 15. Sadharanikarana. 16.  Sahrdaya. 17. Pratibha. 18. Kavya-Guna. 19. Kavya-Dosa. VI. Appendices. Afterword. Select Bibliography. Index.

The book aspires to do for Indian poetics what Hudson’s book, An Introduction to the Study of English Literature did for English literature, though in a totally different manner and style. It provides the student with the essential knowledge about almost all aspects of Indian poetics. Based on the original Sanskrit sources, it presents the necessary information lucidly in precise and clear terms. Each chapter is self-contained and complete in itself, with explanatory notes, and a bibliography of relevant works. The Sanskrit terms used in the text are invariably explained or provided with English equivalents. 

For quick reference, “A Glossary of Sanskrit Literary Terms” is given in the Appendices, which contain also “A List of Noted Indian Poeticians (including commentators) and Their Works” and “Notes on Major Texts in Indian Poetics”.

This handy volume, with its unique features, will prove invaluable to those who are going to embark on the study of Indian poetics, especially the ones who have no Sanskrit background. To a devoted student, it will prove a useful companion during his/her further studies.