Megasthenes' Indica: A New Translation of the Fragments with Commentary

The Indica is a classical work of ethnography that provides a new translation of all the surviving portions of the description of India written by Megasthenes in 310 BCE. It is the fullest account of Indian geography, history, and customs available to the classical world. The book is a valuable resource for classical scholars and students interested in Hellenistic history and cultural attitudes, as well as scholars working on the early history of India.

Format: Hardback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This remarkable work presents a fresh and comprehensive translation of all the surviving fragments of the renowned account of India penned by Megasthenes in approximately 310 BCE. It stands as the most comprehensive and detailed account of Indian geography, history, and customs available to the classical world. The Indica, a pioneering masterpiece of ethnography, marked a significant shift in Hellenistic writing. Prior to the expedition of Alexander the Great in 326-325 BCE, the Greeks had limited knowledge of India. Megasthenes, who served as an ambassador in the Maurya capital of Pataliputra for a considerable period, filled the gaps in the classical world's understanding of India with his invaluable insights.

Unfortunately, only fragments of Megasthenes' book have survived, preserved in other Greek and Latin authors. However, Stoneman's diligent efforts have resulted in a reliable and accessible version of all writings that can plausibly be attributed to Megasthenes. His work spans a wide range of subjects, including intricate descriptions of social structure, the royal household, and captivating accounts of elephant hunting and Indian philosophical ideas. Notably, his book is the sole written source contemporary with the Maurya kingdom of Candragupta, as writing was not in use in India during this period.

This translation offers a valuable gateway to a deeper comprehension of Greek ethnography and serves as a rich resource in the study of Indian history. It will be of immense value to classical scholars, students, and scholars engaged in the early history of India, who have traditionally relied on scattered and dated collections of evidence. The meticulous translation and comprehensive analysis provided by Stoneman make this work an indispensable tool for scholars seeking to unravel the complexities of ancient India.

Weight: 406g
Dimension: 160 x 241 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367472948