The Life or Legend of Gaudama, the Buddha of the Burmese (Volume I)

"The Life or Legend of Gaudama, the Buddha of the Burmese (Volume I)" by Paul Ambroise Bigandet is a 19th-century exploration of Siddhartha Gautama’s life and teachings within Burmese Buddhism. The book journeys into the origins of Buddhism as practiced in Burma, and it narrates the transformation of Prince Siddhartha in his quest to become the Buddha. The story starts with an introduction and historical context, then goes to Gautama's noble family and the important events around his birth, including his mother, Queen Maia, his father, King Thoodaudana, and foreshadowing events that suggest his destiny. The author brings out the historical and traditional influences on the Burmese understanding of Buddha's life, setting the stage for the rest of the book.