Rasa Theory in Shakespearian Tragedies

This book explores the ancient Sanskrit theory of Rasa and applies it to Shakespeare's tragic masterpieces, demonstrating that emotions are universal and their communication follows similar patterns across cultures. It establishes a cross-cultural study on the communication of emotions in art and finds parallels between Bharata's ideas and Aristotle's, making it relevant to modern media and audience-centric communication theories.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 176 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This groundbreaking book offers a fresh and insightful Eastern perspective to the ever-expanding realm of Shakespeare criticism. By delving into the ancient Sanskrit theory of Rasa, the emotional response to performing arts, it provides a comprehensive exploration and application of this concept to Shakespeare's tragic masterpieces. Bharata, the author of the Natyasastra, a classical Sanskrit text on theater, developed intricate guidelines for the communication of emotion from the author to the actor and ultimately to the audience. This intricate process resulted in a profound aesthetic experience known as Rasa. While Bharata may be chronologically older than Aristotle, his ideas remain as relevant and profound today as Aristotle's, often echoing the wisdom of the Greek master. This cross-cultural study on the transmission of emotions in art establishes that emotions are universal and their communication follows similar patterns across different cultures. The Rasa theory has found its way into modern media, such as film, and has become an integral part of audience-centric communication theories. This volume not only extends the East-West dialogue in aesthetic theory but also highlights parallels and divergences, appealing to both aesthetes and critics alike. By offering a deeper understanding of Rasa and its application to Shakespearean drama, this book contributes to our appreciation of the timeless power of art to evoke and communicate emotions.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367634421