The Recognition of Shakœntala

Download or read book The Recognition of Shakœntala written by Kali dasa and published by NYU Press. This book was released on 2006-11 with total page 419 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The play Shakuntala was one of the first examples of Indian literature to be read in translation in Europe. Shakuntala's story is a leitmotiv that recurs in many works of Indian literature and culminates in the master Kali-dasa's drama for the stage. The virtuous heroine is forgotten by her betrothed, the king Dushyanta, only to be refound thanks to a distinguishing signet ring discovered by a fisherman in the belly of one of his catch. The final act distills the essence of human forgiveness, in Shakuntala's gracious release of her husband from his guilt.