Answer to Question #298259 in English for garg

Question

How does Kalidasa explore dramatic tension between the ascetic and the erotic elements in Abhijnanasakuntalam? Write an essay with illustrations from the first three acts of the play.

Answer 1

Kalidasa explores dramatic tension between the ascetic and the erotic elements by showing the challenge that arises when the characters try to harmonize duty and love. In the play, there is particular tension between dharma and karma. The structure of the play; from the opposition between duty and love during Shakuntala’s courtship, to failed efforts to harmonize them in the middle of the play, to reconciliation between them in the final act suggests that reconciling the competing goals of human existence is a lifelong journey, but that when that struggle is faithfully undertaken, it eventually proceeds toward spiritual liberation. The tension is seen through Dusyanta who is bound by his duty as a king not to engage in love affairs but cannot resist his love for Shakuntala. Similarly, Shakuntala is bound by religious piety not to engage in love affairs.