Indian Poetics and Aesthetics

Indian Poetics and Aesthetics 

Hello readers,

This blog is based on Thinking activity which is assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad sir.

In ancient India, Sanskrit was the language of literary criticism, known as Sahityasastra. It encompassed various aspects like Alamkarshastra, Kavyashastra, and Kavyamimansa, all aimed at understanding poetry's purpose of evoking pleasure (Rasanubhuti).

Indian poetics, especially Sanskrit poetics, laid the groundwork for literary analysis. Concepts like Rasa, Vakrokti, Alamkara, Auchitya, and Riti emerged, offering deep insights into literature.

Criticism in Indian poetics widened perspectives on artworks since language is limited in expressing experiences. Simplifying complex ideas, Indian poetics classified various aspects, enhancing our understanding of literature.

It is devided in many catagories:

1. Rasa theory by Bharata

2. Dhvani theory by Aanandvardhan

3. Vakrokti theory by Kuntaka

4. Alamkara theory by Bhamaha

5. Riti by Vaman

6. Auchitya theory by Kshemendra.

Rasa theory by Bharata

Bharata refers to the human soul as Bhava-Jagat, translating to "the world of emotions." He extensively explored the theory of Rasa, which holds significant importance in both concept and context. Rasa is instrumental in creating a delightful atmosphere around feelings and emotions, drawing inspiration from the references found in the Upanishads. Through his work, Bharata delved into the diverse expressions within the realm of human experience, shaping our understanding of the intricate interplay between emotions and the world around us.

The theory of rasa is expounded in Chapter 6 of the Natya Shastra, an ancient Sanskrit text ascribed to Bharata Muni. Bramha's Srirti(world) is of Shad Rasa. (6 rasa)

ભાવનું ઉર્ધ્વીકરણ એટલે રસની પ્રાપ્તિ.

विभावानुभावव्यभिचारिसंयोगाद्ररस निष्पत्ति:।

"Rasa is produced from a combination of Determinants(Vibhava), Consequents(Anubhava) and Transitory States(Vyabhicharibhava)."

According to Sahitya Darpan, Sthayi Bhavas intertwine with Vibhav, Anubhav, and Vyabhicharibhav to evoke Rasa. These Sthayi Bhavas serve as the foundation, leading us to Sanchari Bhavas, of which there are 33 kinds, akin to the fleeting tides of the ocean, reflecting facial emotions or Mukhavaivarnya.

Satvik Bhavas, though often imperceptible, play a crucial role. For instance, in Kumarasambhav, when Narad conveyed Shiva's proposal to Parvati, her drooping eyelids exemplified Satvik Bhavas.

The line "બીજ માંથી પૂનમ દઈ દે સહેજ પાપં નમેલી ખોલી નાખ" by Manoj Khanderiya also exemplifies Satvik Bhavas, portraying subtle yet profound emotions.

Sthayi Bhavas : 

Bharat in Natyashastra describes eight rasas. Later on Abinavgupta add one more rasa namely "shanta" in it. 

"श्रृंगार करुण वीर

        रौद्र हास्य भयानका।

बिभत्सादभूत शांतश्व

         नव नाट्ये रसा: स्मृता ।।"

Table of Rasa :

Vibhav : 

Rasa emerges through the interaction between characters or elements within a narrative. For instance, in Abhijnanasakuntalam, the relationship between Dushyant and Shakuntala exemplifies Alambana Vibhava or Uddipana Vibhava. Similarly, in the story of Romeo and Juliet, they serve as Vibhava-Excitants, driving the emotional dynamics of the narrative.

 

Anubhav :

Places like the Tamala tree where Dushyant and Shakuntala met, the oak tree, and the garden in Romeo and Juliet serve as examples of Anubhav. However, Khemi by Ra. Vi. Pathak stands out as an exception in Anubhav because, for the arousal of Shringara Rasa, there needs to be a Yathochit or proper atmosphere. Another illustration is the Gujarati movie "Karsandas - Pay and Use."

Vybhichari Bhav :

Anubhav is akin to Sanchari Bhavas, representing transitory feelings born out of emotions themselves. For instance, depression can stem from sorrow. At times, these feelings are intertwined with more than one emotion; for instance, sickness, despair, and remorse may arise from sorrow.

Samyog :

The poet must synchronize elements in such a way that they seamlessly blend, much like sugar melting in milk, where they become indistinguishable from each other.

Dhvani school

Dhvani school of poetry was originated by Anandavardhana. He wrote “Dhvanyaloka” in the middle of the 19thcentury which brought focus on the potential power of the word in Kavya.Anandvardhana in Dhvanyalokam takes up three main types of implicit sese: Vastudhvani, Alankaradhvani and Rasa dhvani.

Next only to the rasa theory in importance, the dhvani theory of anandavardhana considers suggestion, the indirectly evoked meaning as the characteristic property of literary discourse, the determinant that separates it from other rational discourses. Dhvani becomes an embracing principle that explains the structure and function of the other major elements of literature- the aesthetic effect (rasa), the figural mode and devices (alamkara), the stylistic values (riti) and excellences and defects (guna-dosa).

In Dhvayyaloka, Ana presented a structural analysis of indirect literary meaning. He has classified different kinds of suggestion and defined them by identifying the nature of suggestion in each. According to V. S. SeturamnDhavani means "That kind of poetry, where in the meaning renders itself secondary or the word renders its meaning secondary and suggests the implied meaning is designated by the learned as 'Dhavani' or 'suggestive poetry'.

Riti School

              Riti is the theory of language of literature. The word Riti was first used by Bharata'sNatyasastra' itself under the republic of vrtti. But it was Vamana who first developed it into a theory of VisistaPadaracanariti'. In the very simple words formation of or arrangement of marked constructions is riti.

Two other words are used for riti are Marga and Vrtti. Later, around ninth century AD Anandavardhana distinguished this styles on the basis of the use of particular kinds of compounds. The Gunas have their potential being in this permanent source which Vamana regarded as the Atman of the Kavya and called it Riti. Hence the thesis "Riti is the Soul of a Kavya." 'RitiroatmaaKaavyasyaSareerasyeva'. Riti is to the Kavya what Atman is to the Sarira. It is necessary here to study the etymology of the terms Atman and Riti in order to realise the significance of Vamana's conception of the Soul of a Kavya. The word Atman is believed to have been derived from the root 'At meaning to move constantly or from the root Anmeaning to live, or perhaps from both.

The term Riti is derived from the root 'Ri' meaning to move. The identity of Riti with Atman | becomes complete when we take Dandin's metaphor of Gunas as Pranas. Just as the Atman is the Karana Sarira of a person, Riti is the Karana Sarira of a Kavya. The natural beauty or Sobha of a Kavya depends on the Gunas of its Soul which is Riti.

Vakrokti School 

                In the whole range of Sanskrit poetics, the term Vakrokti took altogether a new significance and the highest position as the all-pervading poetic concept in Kuntaka'sVakroktijivita. Presenting the major schools of Sanskrit poetics, the book gives general definition of vakrokti and its multi- dimensional implications. Vakrokti means the hidden meaning of the work of art. The writer outs the message in the hidden way that at the first glance we will not be able to find the meaning of the poem or the sentence or any creative work of art. It is also a theory of language of literature. It claims that the characteristic property of literary language is its markedness'. Kuntaka made- Vakrokti a full-fledged theory of literariness.Vakrokti literally means deviant or marked expression. kuntaka's theory of vakrokti and makes its critical analysis in relation to various literary concepts-alankara, rasavadalankara, marga and rasa.

Auchitya School

                               We can say that Kshemendra is the founder of Auchitya School. The other nearest meaning of this word is Perfect' or we can also say that 'Complete'. It is true that the nature functions itself but only we human beings tried to make perfect or tried to add perfection in all most all the things.

 In literature, Auchitya plays a vital role. If Auchitya is missing in the work of art then that work of art will not be able to create that much effect. And for that it is compulsory that the meaning or we can say that the words used by the author must be conventional. The theory of property or appropriateness claims that in all aspect of literary composition. There is the possibility of a perfect the most appropriate choice of subject of ideas, of words, of devices as such, it has affinities with Longinus's theory of the sublime.

Thank you...

Trends and Movements

Hello readers,

This blog is based on thinking activity assigned by Megha Trivedi Ma'am

English literature is like a big, always changing landscape with lots of different styles and ideas. Over time, writers join together in groups and have their own special ways of writing, called trends or movements. In this period, people started thinking in new ways, coming up with new inventions, imagining new things, and sharing new ideas. They were free to be creative and break the rules. Art and paintings were also important during this time, adding to the excitement of the era.

"EVERYTHING WE SEE HIDES ANOTHER THING, WE ALWAYS WANT TO SEE WHAT IS HIDDEN BY WHAT WE SEE.”

~ René Magritte

2)Surrealism - (Add your class activity works - Painting, Poem, Photo ) 

➣ Meaning :-

Surrealism is like going on a crazy adventure in art and literature. It's about letting your imagination go wild and exploring the weird and unexpected parts of your mind. Artists and writers who like surrealism want to show the strange and dreamy side of life. They create things that might not make sense in real life but are really cool to think about. It's like going on a journey into the unknown and seeing where your thoughts can lead you!

Defination :-

Sur + Realism = Super Realism

This movement started between World War 1 and World War 2. Surrealism was make focused and it's key feature was like 'Positive Expression'. One of the most prominent figure Andre Breton was influenced by Sigmund Freud's philosophy. We can see in this movement in visual art and literature. "Surrealism Manifesto" was the key term or work to start this movement. 

✰ What is in this movement? :-

Surrealism is like a deep dive into imagination. It's entering a world where reality takes a break and dreams take over. In this creative movement, painters and writers let their minds roam freely, creating scenes and stories that don't follow normal rules but are still fascinating.

Think of surrealism as exploring your subconscious, where thoughts and feelings appear in strange ways. Artists use colors, shapes, and forms to make landscapes that seem from another world. Writers tell stories that twist and turn like a rollercoaster ride through the mind.

Surrealism means breaking away from reality's limits and exploring the hidden parts of our minds. It's a place where imagination rules, and surprises wait around every corner. Famous artists like Salvador Dalí and René Magritte, and writers like André Breton, led this fantastical movement, inviting us to discover the mysteries within ourselves.

"SURREALISM IS DESTRUCTIVE, BUT IT DESTROYS ONLY WHAT IT CONSIDERS TO BE SHACKLES LIMITING OUR VISION."

~ Salvador Dali

3)Modernism and Postmodernism

✰ What is Modernism? :-

Modernism was a big change that happened in the late 1800s and early 1900s, especially after World War I. It was like a fresh start, saying goodbye to old ways. Modernism shook up art, literature, and how people saw the world.

Artists and writers got really experimental, trying out new techniques and styles. It was like a big playground where creativity had no limits.

Modernism was all about being unique. It celebrated each artist and writer's special way of thinking, breaking away from normal ideas. This rebellious spirit didn't just stop at art—it influenced architecture, design, and even how cities were planned.

Famous modernists included Virginia Woolf, T.S. Eliot, Pablo Picasso, and James Joyce. Their work reflected the excitement of change and trying out new things.

✰ Characteristics of Modernism :-

1) Experimentation :-

Modernists are big fans of trying out new stuff. Whether it's in art, literature, or music, they're always testing fresh ideas, forms, and styles. It's like a huge creative playground for them. They love to play with new writing skills and different types of art. They experiment with new ideas, thoughts, technology, and inventions to make something cool and different.

2) Individualism :-

Modernism is all about celebrating you. Artists and writers show their own special views and don't stick to old rules. It's about being yourself and letting your creativity stand out. They really like each piece of art or writing to be unique and special.

3) Fragmentation :-

Things get a bit fragmented in Modernism. Stories, artworks, and even ideas can be broken into pieces and then put back together in unexpected ways. It's like creating a puzzle of imagination. We can see the streamlined and imaginative perspective in certain ways.

4) Subjectivity :-

Modernists really value personal feelings and experiences. They look inside people's thoughts and emotions, making their work more personal. Artists and writers focus a lot on individual feelings and why they matter.

5) Social and Political Critique :- 

Modernism isn't afraid to ask tough questions about society and politics. It speaks up, challenging how things are and pushing for change. We see more and more people questioning what's happening and certain situations.

What is Post-Modernism? :-

Post-Modernism is like the rebellious cousin of Modernism, stirring things up in art, literature, and more. It's about breaking away from the idea that there's only one right way to do things. Post-Modernists are like playful magicians, mixing up ideas and styles to create something unexpected.

Picture Post-Modernism as a colorful carnival where every ride is a surprise. It celebrates differences and diversity, showing that life's chaos can be beautiful.

Post-Modernism tells us to look at things from all sides, understanding that truth isn't always clear. It's about embracing life's messiness instead of needing neat answers.

Famous Post-Modernists like W.H. Auden and T.S. Eliot with his poem "The Waste Land" create works that are like intriguing puzzles. They invite us to have fun and explore where imagination leads us.

Writers :-

➣ Samuel Beckett :-

"Theatre of the Absurd" emphasized the dissolution of the narrative. The play "Waiting for Godot" (1953) An all-encompassing existential tale featuring two characters.

➣ John Barth :-

literary criticism essay "The Literature of Exhaustion" (1967) Fourth novel "Giles Goat-Boy" (1966), a prime example of the metafiction characteristic of postmodernism.

➣ Italo Calvino :-

Renowned for his playful and experimental narratives, as seen in works like "If on a winter's night a traveler" and "Invisible Cities."

➣ Don DeLillo :-

Notable for works like "White Noise" and "Underworld," exploring themes of media saturation and contemporary culture.

➣ John Fowles :-

"The French Lieutenant's Woman" (1969) is a historical novel with a major emphasis on metafiction.

➣ Joseph Heller :-

Catch-22 (1961) tells several stories in chronological order, Heller also paradoxes a literary device that contradicts itself but contains a plausible kernel of truth.

➣ Gabriel Garcia Marquez :-

"One Hundred Years of Solitude" (1967) is an extraordinarily playful novel that follows multiple characters.

➣ Thomas Pynchon :-

Known for complex and often satirical novels, such as "Gravity's Rainbow" and "The Crying of Lot 49."

➣ Kurt Vonnegut :-

"Slaughterhouse Five" (1969) is a non-linear tale in which the main character is "unsteady in time".

➣ David Foster Wallace :-

"Infinite Jest" (1996) exemplifies its eclectic, encyclopedic structure, and the epitome of postmodernism. "The Pale King" (2011) is also highly metaphorical, employing a character named David Foster Wallace.

✰ Characteristics of Post-Modernism :-

1) Playful and Innovative:

Post-Modernism embraces playfulness and innovation, constantly exploring new ideas and pushing boundaries. It's like a creative playground where rules are flexible and experimentation is encouraged. Artists and writers infuse their work with fresh perspectives and imaginative concepts, capturing the essence of new thoughts and innovations.

2) Irony and Wit:

Post-Modernism revels in irony and wit, using humor and satire to critique society and challenge conventional wisdom. Artists and writers craft unique pieces that incorporate realistic elements and inventive literary techniques, adding layers of entertainment and insight to their creations.

3) Cultural Fusion and Remix:

Post-Modernism thrives on cultural fusion and remixing, drawing inspiration from diverse sources, time periods, and styles. It's like creating a vibrant collage of influences to forge something entirely original and thought-provoking.

4) Self-Reflective Fiction:

Post-Modern literature often features self-reflective elements, acknowledging its own status as a work of fiction. It's akin to a narrative hall of mirrors, inviting readers to explore the complexities of storytelling and the blurred lines between reality and imagination.

5) Fluidity of Identity:

Post-Modernism embraces the fluidity of identity, challenging fixed notions and celebrating the ever-evolving nature of self-expression. It encourages individuals to embrace their journey of self-discovery and embrace the idea that personal identity is dynamic and constantly evolving.

4)Dada Movement - (Add your class activity works - Painting, Poem, Photo ) 

✰ What is Dada Movement? :-

Dadaism is like the rebellious kid of the art and literature world, shaking up traditional values just for fun. Some call it nonsense, but that's kind of the idea.

Imagine during World War I, around 1915-16, a group of artists chilling in Switzerland. They hang out at a cool club called 'The Cabaret Voltaire' and boom—Dada is born!

One guy, Tristan Tzara, picks the name from a German dictionary because 'Dada' sounds cool. It means something like 'Hobby Horse,' which fits because Dadaism is all about going against the flow.

Dadaism is the ultimate shout against war, nationalism, and materialism. It's like giving a big "nope" to the rules and saying, "We'll do it our way."

According to Jean Arp,

"Dada is for the senseless, which does not mean nonsense. Dada is senseless like nature." 

Dadaism is like the art of rebellion, where artists reject traditional values. Tristan Tzara suggested a method for creating Dadaist poems by randomly selecting words from a newspaper. Marcel Duchamp, influenced by Dadaism, created the famous artwork "R.Mutt" by signing a urinal. 

Surrealism is an imaginative journey into the unusual and unexpected. Modernism is a burst of creativity challenging tradition and celebrating uniqueness. Post-Modernism celebrates creativity without limits and questions established truths. Dadaism was about personal expression, proving that anything could be art.

Thank you...