Sakuntala: Analysis of Major Characters
"Sakuntala: Analysis of Major Characters" delves into the intricacies of the notable figures within the poetic drama "Sakuntala," attributed to the ancient Indian playwright Kalidasa. Central to the narrative is Dushyanta, the king of India, who falls in love with Sakuntala at first sight. Their secret marriage leads to complications when a curse causes Dushyanta to forget Sakuntala, until a ring he gifted her serves as a catalyst for their reunion. Sakuntala, born of a Brahman and a water nymph, embodies devotion and strength, waiting for Dushyanta in her sacred grove while grappling with her fate after being taken to heaven. Kanwa, the wise hermit and Sakuntala's foster father, plays a pivotal role as he blesses their union, having the foresight of their son's destined greatness. Mathavya, the king's jester, adds a layer of humor and camaraderie to the plot, reflecting the dynamics of royal life. Finally, Bharata, the offspring of Sakuntala and Dushyanta, symbolizes hope and legacy, bridging the earthly and celestial realms as the narrative unfolds towards a harmonious conclusion. This exploration offers insights into themes of love, destiny, and the interplay of divine intervention in human affairs.
Sakuntala: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Klidsa
First published: c. 45 b.c.e. or c. 395 c.e.
Genre: Play
Locale: India
Plot: Love
Time: The Golden Age of India
Dushyanta, the king of India and hero of this poetic drama. Falling in love at first sight with Sakuntala, he persuades her to marry him secretly. In fulfillment of a curse, he forgets about her thereafter until a ring he gave her is shown to him. Reunited first in heaven and then returned to Earth, they live happily for many years.
Sakuntala, the daughter of a Brahman and a water nymph. She returns the king's love and marries him but remains in her sacred grove after his departure to await her foster father's return. After her husband fails to recognize her, she is taken away to heaven by a strange winged being. She gives birth to a son before she and her husband are reunited.
Kanwa, a wise hermit and Sakuntala's foster father. Having the gift of omniscience, he knows all about the secret wedding. Informed by a supernatural voice that Sakuntala's son is destined to rule the world, he blesses the union and sends Sakuntala off to her husband. Her premonitions of evil prove true when Dushyanta fails to recognize her.
Mathavya, the king's jester. To be near Sakuntala, the king breaks off his hunting, pretending that his motive is to humor a wish of Mathavya.
Bharata, the son of Sakuntala and Dushyanta. Carried to heaven for a reunion with his wife, Dushyanta finds a young boy playing with a lion. The boy proves to be his son, who accompanies him and Sakuntala back to Earth.