Alankara Shastra, which translates to the science of figures of speech, has a rich and intricate history within Hindu literary traditions. Although it might not have existed as a formal, independent subject in the most ancient times, the first steps towards its systematization can be traced back to the Natyashastra of Bharata. While primarily a work on dramaturgy, the Natyashastra lays the foundation for viewing poetics as a science, heralding the structured exploration of literary embellishments.
The development of Alankara Shastra saw significant contributions from a series of scholars across centuries:
- Bhamaha and Dandin (6th century CE): Early pioneers who began to articulate and classify the figures of speech.
- Vamana and Udbhata (8th century CE): Further refined and expanded the ideas introduced by their predecessors.
- Rudrata and Anandavardhana (9th century CE): Introduced more sophisticated theories, including the concept of Dhvani (suggestion).
- Abhinavagupta, Kshemendra, and Mammata (11th century CE): These scholars provided comprehensive treatises that deeply influenced the study and application of Alankara Shastra.
Schools of Alankara Shastra
The subject of Alankara was approached from various perspectives by different authors, leading to the emergence of eight main schools or Sampradayas:
Riti (Style)
- Definition: Refers to the manner or style of writing.
- Development: Initially recognized as three styles, this expanded to six.
- Regional Names: Vaidarbhi, Gaudi, and Magadhi, suggesting regional influences.
- Key Exponents: Dandin and Vamana.
Guna (Quality)
- Definition: Concerns the qualities of words (Shabda) and meaning (Artha).
- Expansion: Grew from three to ten qualities over time.
- Merger: Eventually merged into the Alankara school.
- Chief Proponent: Vamana.
Alankara (Literary Embellishment)
- Definition: Involves adornments of words (Shabda) and sense (Artha).
- Evolution: The number of Alankaras increased from 38 in early periods to around 200.
- Main Propagators: Dandin and Bhamaha.
Vakrokti (Oblique Expression)
- Definition: A mode of expression where the listener perceives a meaning different from the speaker’s intention.
- Key Figures: Bhamaha and Kuntaka (11th century CE).
Rasa (Sentiment)
- Definition: Refers to the mood or emotion evoked in the spectator or reader.
- Types: The nine Rasas, often called Navarasas, are central to this school.
- Earliest Exponent: Bharata, followed by Udbhata and others.
Dhvani (Suggestion)
- Definition: The concept of suggestion or implied meaning.
- Introduction: Introduced by Anandavardhana.
Anumana (Inference)
- Definition: Refers to sentiments that need to be inferred and experienced.
- Founder: Shankuka (9th century CE).
Aucitya (Propriety)
- Definition: Concerns the appropriateness or propriety of expression.
- Proponent: Kshemendra.
Notable Works in Alankara Shastra
Several seminal texts have been instrumental in the development and propagation of Alankara Shastra. These include:
- Natyashastra by Bharata: A foundational text in dramaturgy and poetics.
- Kavyalankara by Bhamaha: An early systematic work on figures of speech.
- Kavyadarsha by Dandin: A comprehensive treatise on literary embellishments.
- Kavyalankara-sangraha by Udbhata: A significant work that furthered the study of Alankaras.
- Kavyalankara by Rudrata: Another critical text in the field of poetics.
- Dhvanyaloka by Anandavardhana: Introduced and expounded the theory of Dhvani.
- Kavyaprakasha by Mammata: A highly influential text that synthesized previous knowledge and theories in poetics.
Through these diverse contributions and schools of thought, Alankara Shastra has evolved into a sophisticated and nuanced branch of literary theory, enriching the understanding and appreciation of Hindu poetics.