Rasa in Aesthetics

Book Detail

• Author: Patnaik, Priyadarshi
• Publisher: D.K. Printworld Pvt. Ltd.
• Edition: 3rd Impression
• Binding: Paperback
• ISBN: 9788124607107
• Number of Pages: 296
• Release Date: 01-09-2013
• Package Dimensions: 8.6 x 5.9 x 1.0 inches
• Language: English

Overview:
Dr. Priyadarshi Patnaik’s work delves deeply into the Indian tradition of criticism, which spans over two millennia, with a specific focus on the rasa theory. Originating between the 1st century BC and the 4th century AD in Bharata's Natya Shastra, this theory discusses the emotive content of a work of art—how emotions are depicted, inferred, and conveyed. Patnaik offers a unique analysis of this ancient concept, showcasing its relevance to not just Indian literature, but also modern Western classics, Chinese love lyrics, and Japanese haiku. By elucidating the nine primary rasas and their application to diverse literary forms, this book bridges the gap between Eastern and Western literary traditions.

Key Themes:

• Rasa Theory: A detailed exploration of the nine primary rasas and their representation in literature and art, based on the Natya Shastra and the commentary of Abhinavagupta.
• Transcultural Application: Dr. Patnaik examines the applicability of rasa theory to modern Western literature, including works by authors like Lawrence, Kafka, Hemingway, Faulkner, and others, as well as non-Western forms like Chinese poetry and Japanese haiku.
• Universal Aesthetics: The author emphasizes the universality of rasa theory in literary criticism, proving its relevance to different cultures and literary traditions.
• Literary Criticism: The book challenges conventional approaches to literary criticism, presenting rasa theory as a lens through which to analyze modern texts and audience reactions.
• Major Writers: The work touches on the literary contributions of figures such as Camus, Beckett, Lorca, Neruda, and several others, demonstrating how rasa theory can be applied across genres and cultures.

Target Audience:

• Scholars of Indology, Indian aesthetics, and comparative literary criticism.
• Students and academics interested in literary theory, especially those focused on cross-cultural analysis.
• Readers fascinated by the intersection of Eastern and Western literary traditions.

Key Insights:

• Rasa theory offers a rich framework for analyzing not just classical Indian literature but also global literary masterpieces.
• The book provides new perspectives on the emotional depth and universal themes in literature across cultures.
• A bold and comprehensive analysis of how ancient theories can be applied to modern literary works, offering an enriched understanding of aesthetic and emotional responses.

Patnaik’s Rasa Theory stands out as a pioneering exploration that connects classical Indian aesthetics with modern literary criticism, making it an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts of comparative literature.