Abstract:
This research is an attempt to make a critical study of theories of similes in Sanskrit poetics, and to find out how far such theories are applied in actual Sanskrit drama. This thesis is divided into 5 chapters. Chapter I is an introduction. Chapter II deals with the similes in Sanskrit treatises.Chapter III deals with Sanskrit drama composed between A.D. 400 and A.D.1200. Chapter IV is the study of similes in Sanskrit drama. Chapter V. is the conclusion and suggestion. By simile is meant the resemblance of properties of two things. A simile is complete when all components are mentioned namely, the object compared to(Upamāna), the object compared (Upameya), the common property (Sādhāranadharma) and the terms signifying similitude(Upamāpratipādaka). In Sankrit plays the expression of simitude may be grouped under3categories.: 1) When the similarity is expressed by specific terms like iva, yathā etc., 2) When the similarity is to be found from the meaning and 3) When both the meaning and specific terms are required. Similes are of great significance in Sanskrit poetics as they give emphasis to ideas and images contained in the passages referred to.