Description
Arthur Berriedale Keith’s comprehensive study remains the definitive English-language reference on classical Sanskrit literature, covering the golden age from roughly 200 BCE to 1000 CE. This scholarly yet accessible volume examines the masterworks of Sanskrit drama, poetry, and prose that shaped Indian literary tradition. Keith meticulously analyzes the contributions of Kalidasa, Bhasa, Ashvaghosha, and other luminaries, exploring their techniques, themes, and cultural contexts. Unlike survey texts, this work provides deep critical analysis of individual texts while situating them within broader literary movements. Essential for Sanskrit students, researchers in Indian literature, and anyone seeking serious engagement with classical Indian aesthetics, this Motilal Banarsidass edition preserves Keith’s erudite scholarship in an affordable format. The 962-page volume serves as both reference guide and interpretive companion, bridging ancient texts and modern understanding. Whether you’re studying comparative literature, Indian philosophy, or classical languages, Keith’s insights into poetic theory, dramatic conventions, and narrative structures illuminate the sophistication of Sanskrit literary achievement and its enduring influence on South Asian culture.
- Publisher : Motilal Banarsidass; First Edition (1 January 2017)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 962 pages
- ISBN-10 : 8120841123
- ISBN-13 : 978-8120841123
- Item Weight : 1 kg 520 g
- Dimensions : 20 x 5 x 25 cm
- Country of Origin : India
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the author of A History of Sanskrit Literature Classical Period?
The book is authored by Arthur Berriedale Keith (1879-1944), a distinguished Scottish Indologist and Sanskrit scholar. Keith was Professor of Sanskrit at the University of Edinburgh and produced several authoritative works on Indian literature, philosophy, and drama that remain standard references today.
What topics are covered in this Sanskrit literature history book?
This comprehensive 962-page volume covers classical Sanskrit drama, poetry (kavya), prose literature, and aesthetic theory from approximately 200 BCE to 1000 CE. It includes detailed analysis of works by Kalidasa, Bhasa, Ashvaghosha, Bhavabhuti, and other major classical authors, along with discussions of literary conventions, poetic techniques, and theatrical traditions.
Is this book suitable for beginners in Sanskrit literature?
While written in accessible English, this is a scholarly academic work best suited for serious students, researchers, and those with some background in Sanskrit or Indian literature. It serves as an excellent reference for university courses, doctoral research, or dedicated independent study of classical Sanskrit literary tradition.
What is the price of A History of Sanskrit Literature Classical Period in India?
The Motilal Banarsidass paperback edition is available at The Bookish Owl for ₹1295. This represents excellent value for a comprehensive 962-page academic reference work from India’s leading publisher of Indological texts.
How is the classical period different from Vedic Sanskrit literature?
The classical period (covered in this volume) focuses on secular literary works including drama, courtly poetry, and narrative prose composed in refined classical Sanskrit. This contrasts with Vedic literature, which consists primarily of religious hymns, rituals, and philosophical texts. Keith authored a separate volume on Vedic literature to complement this classical period study.
