Devotional Poetics and the Indian Sublime

Devotional Poetics and the Indian Sublime examines the concept of rasa (aesthetic emotion) in Sanskrit poetics and its relationship to Western theories of the sublime. Through analysis of classical Indian texts and comparative literature, Mishra establishes connections between these traditions of literary theory. The book traces the evolution of devotional poetry in India, with particular focus on medieval bhakti poetry and its impact on Indian aesthetics. Mishra explores key Sanskrit texts and frameworks while putting them in dialogue with European philosophical traditions, including works by Kant and Burke. The study incorporates examples from both classical Sanskrit literature and contemporary Indian writing to demonstrate the ongoing relevance of these aesthetic principles. Close readings of texts in multiple languages illuminate the complex interplay between religious devotion and poetic expression. This scholarly work challenges conventional Western-centric approaches to literary theory by presenting Indian aesthetic concepts as sophisticated philosophical systems with enduring influence. The analysis reveals parallels between Indian and European thought while highlighting the unique contributions of South Asian poetic traditions.

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⚜️ Vijay Mishra draws extensively from both Western and Eastern philosophical traditions to develop his theory of the Indian sublime, creating a unique cross-cultural analysis of religious poetry 🕉️ The book explores the concept of "rasa" - an ancient Indian theory of aesthetic emotion - and how it relates to devotional poetry and transcendent experiences 📚 The author examines works from the Bhakti movement, a devotional tradition that emerged in medieval India and challenged traditional social hierarchies by emphasizing direct, personal connection with the divine 🎭 Mishra's analysis includes detailed study of the works of Tulsidas, particularly the Ramcharitmanas, showing how this epic poem represents a sophisticated fusion of Sanskrit and vernacular literary traditions ⭐ The book was published by Peter Lang Publishing in 1998 and has become an important text for scholars studying the intersection of Indian literature, religion, and aesthetic theory