Summary:
"The Sanskrit Drama: In Its Origin, Development, Theory and Practice" by A. Berriedale Keith is a scholarly treatise on the ancient Indian dramatic arts written in the early 20th century. The work explores the historical context, evolution, and theoretical aspects of Sanskrit drama, emphasizing its roots in Vedic literature and its rich cultural significance. Keith aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the great writers and thinkers behind this tradition, as well as the nuances of dramatic theory and practice. The opening of the book establishes the importance of prior research and discoveries in understanding the evolution of Indian drama, particularly referencing influential texts and figures. Keith outlines the divine origins of drama according to Indian tradition, as stated in the Nāṭyaçāstra, and highlights a critical examination of how Vedic literature contains elements of dialogue and performance, hinting at earlier forms of drama. The introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive study of how Sanskrit drama not only flourished as a potent cultural and artistic expression but also incorporated various influences and styles through its development. (This is an automatically generated summary.)