The Little Clay Cart: Analysis of Major Characters
"The Little Clay Cart" is a classical Indian play that intricately explores themes of love, justice, and social hierarchy through its major characters. The story revolves around Chrudatta, an honorable young Brahmana who, despite his noble virtues, faces dire circumstances after being falsely accused of murdering his beloved, Vasantasen. Vasantasen, a wealthy courtesan deeply in love with Chrudatta, endures great suffering but ultimately bravely intervenes to save him from execution. The antagonist, Samsthnaka, driven by jealousy, attempts to destroy their love, setting off a chain of tragic events. With the rise of Aryaka, a captive prince who restores justice, Chrudatta regains his fortune and social standing. The narrative also features Sarvilaka, a cunning Brahmana who uses theft to secure his own happiness, and other supporting characters like Madanik, Rohasena, and Maitreya, who enrich the storyline with their diverse experiences and perspectives. This play reflects ancient societal norms while showcasing the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity.
The Little Clay Cart: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Sudraka
Genre: Play
Locale: The ancient city of Ujjayini
Plot: Tragicomedy
Time: Fifth century b.c.e.
Chrudatta, a wise and honorable young Brhmana left impoverished after spending his fortune for the welfare of others. In love with and loved by Vasantasen, he is falsely accused of her murder and condemned to die. As he is being prepared for execution, Vasantasen appears just in time to identify the true murderer and save her lover's life. Chrudatta's fortune is restored, and he is made an official at court by the new and just king, ryaka.
Vasantasen, a wealthy courtesan who is in love with Chrudatta. When she goes to the park to meet her lover, she is set upon by Samsthnaka, who chokes her and leaves her for dead. She is rescued by a Buddhist monk. While Chrudatta is being falsely accused and tried for her murder, she is being nursed back to health. She appears at the place of execution in time to save her lover's life.
Samsthnaka, King Plaka's brother-in-law. Enamored of Vasantasen and madly jealous of her attentions to Chrudatta, he chokes her, leaves her for dead, and accuses his rival of the murder.
Aryaka, a captive prince freed through the efforts of Sarvilaka and Chrudatta. He later deposes King Plaka and restores to Chrudatta his fortune and his rightful place in the world.
Sarvilaka, a thieving Brhmana, Prince ryaka's friend and liberator. He steals the jewels left by Vasantasen in Chrudatta's care and buys his bride, Madanik, with them.
Madanik, Vasantasen's slave and confidant, whom Sarvilaka purchases as his bride.
Rohasena, Chrudatta's son, to whom Vasantasen gives a little gold cart to replace a clay one, which is all his father is able to afford.
Maitreya, a poor Brhmana, Chrudatta's friend and confidant.
Plaka, the unjust king deposed by Prince ryaka.