Translations of Shakuntala and Other Works

"Translations of Shakuntala and Other Works" by Kalidasa is a collection of ancient writings that shares classical dramas and poems, showing characters dealing with love. It introduces a famous play about Shakuntala. She is a main character who goes on a loving adventure connected to gods and the regular world. The start of this set of works tells about the author's background and how he became famous, changing from someone without schooling to a well known and influential poet, thanks to help from the heavens, revealing a bond to nature and a female divine force. The beginning sets the scene for the play, pointing out the main character's loveliness and purity in a calm, natural setting where a king finds her. The difference between serene nature and hard human feelings is pointed out, suggesting the story of love and fate to come.