Group 5 : Close Reading, Sakuntula
Sakuntula is a Hindu Mythology from the eastern part of the world that incorporates the essential values of Hinduism along with comedy. The story was originally in Sanskrit, and difficult to translate into English. At that time, the western way of thinking was very unfamiliar with those of the east. Therefore, it’s nearly impossible to fully translate their ideologies, and principles. One of the main focuses that I’ve noticed is that Hindu Mythology aims to engage with the audience and make sure that they feel pure emotions. I’m going to concentrate on how the love of two characters effect the audience with regards to Rasa, Kama, and Dharma.
The Play Sakuntala immediately starts engaging with the audience during the prologue. The actor-manager and actress have what seems to be a behind the scene conversation in front of the audience to make everyone feel involved. The Rasa was slowly being established when the manager asks the actress to sing a song about summer to put the audience in a mood. She was creating a soothing ambiance while also fulfilling her dharma and being a good hostess. At this time, the audience is in good spirits, and in a comfortable state to be entertained.
In the play, King Dusyanta would often speak his thoughts aloud so that we can see things from his perspective. “King- Can it be that she feels for me what I feel for her? Then perhaps I have a real chance. What though she doesn’t answer me directly? What though she doesn’t look me in the face? When I speak, she is quiet attention. When I gaze, evasive grace”. These are all common questions that we ask ourselves when we are interested in someone. These are personal comments that we dwell on in silence, or with a best friend. In this scene the audience plays the best friend of Dusyanta. We know exactly what he feels and why, in real time. As the king becomes fond of Sakuntala the audience does too. Just by reading the text I can imagine her having a unique beauty and timid personality that can be appealing to many.
Great thesis! It’s very different and specific, so it grabbed my interest. For the final draft, try to expand on your ideas a bit more which I’m sure you’ll do since this was only the rough draft. I like that you included quotes to support your thesis. Try to incorporate a separate conclusion in your final draft as well. Good luck!