The thesis deals with the Rasa aesthetic theory in ancient Indian drama. First, it explains the Rasa theory in general and its influence on the reception of a work of art. Furthermore, it shows the explanations of the Rasa theory from Bharata Muni's Nātyasāstra, where its explanation first appears, and from its commentator Abhinavagupta. The following describes the characteristics of ancient Indian drama, theatres, and dramatic forms. Next, the social, religious, and thematic context of the ancient Indian playwright Kalidasa, who is still known to be one of the greatest Indian authors, is presented. Finally, the characteristics of aesthetic theory and ancient Indian drama are shown through an analysis of the dramatic text of Shakuntala, which is considered one of the best examples of rasa drama.
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