54 pages • 1 hour read
KalidasaThe Recognition of Sakuntala
Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 400A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Sanskrit play The Recognition of Sakuntala by Kalidasa, follows the love story between Sakuntala, raised in a hermitage, and King Dusyanta. They marry secretly, but Dusyanta is cursed to forget her. A lost ring and subsequent trials lead to their reunion and acknowledgement of their son, who is prophesied to become a great ruler. The story explores themes of love, duty, and fate. The guide discusses potentially offensive themes present in classical Sanskrit drama, including gendered descriptions and ableist humor.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Kalidasa's The Recognition of Sakuntala is celebrated for its poetic brilliance and exploration of love, memory, and fate. Critics commend its lyrical language and rich imagery, though some find its pacing slow. The play's cultural significance and emotional depth resonate, but certain archaic elements may challenge modern readers. Overall, a timeless and evocative classic.
Who Should Read The Recognition of Sakuntala?
A reader who would enjoy The Recognition of Sakuntala by Kalidasa likely appreciates classical literature, romantic and mythological themes, and poetic drama. Fans of works like Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream or Goethe’s Faust would find similar appeal in Kalidasa’s rich, intricate storytelling and lyrical language.