The Plays of Girish Karnad a Study in Myths and Gender  (English, Hardcover, Kosta Abhishek)

This book is based on the myths in the plays of Girish Karnataka. The four major plays Hayavadana, Yayati, Nagaland and the fire and the rain have been analysed from a gender perspective. It is a pioneering work since it brings to light the fact that contrary to the prevalent belief that women’s emancipation movement started in the last two centuries, it establishes that the world of ancient India was both liberal and generous. The women represented in these plays belong to ancient India. They were aware of their identities as independent individuals and were able to take intelligent decisions regarding their destiny with vigor and determination. The book establishes Karnataka as a revolutionary author who was able to artistically present the reality of female psyche. It also bridges the distance between ancient and the modern because the emancipated souls of the women presented, radically implant the truth that God created man and woman equal with the same needs, drives and motives. It is really interesting to note how the women in these plays display the multivalent existence in different spheres of human activities.