Q.- Sketch the character of Dushyanta in “Abhijan Shakunthalam”
Ans : King Dushyanta, the central male character in Kalidasa’s Abhijnan Shakuntalam, is a complex and multifaceted figure. His character undergoes significant development throughout the play, reflecting both his human flaws and noble qualities. A critical analysis of his character reveals his internal conflicts, virtues, and the role he plays in the broader themes of the play.
1. Noble and Brave King : At the beginning of the play, King Dushyanta is portrayed as a noble, wise, and valiant ruler. He is respected for his leadership, military skills, and sense of justice. His initial encounter with Shakuntala reveals a tender and romantic side to his character. His love for Shakuntala is genuine, and he marries her with all sincerity, displaying his emotional depth and commitment. He shows great respect for nature and values the purity and simplicity that Shakuntala embodies.
2. Flawed and Forgetful : However, a significant flaw in Dushyanta’s character is his forgetfulness. After being cursed by the sage Durvasa, Dushyanta forgets about Shakuntala and their marriage. This leads to the heart of the drama—the pain and suffering of Shakuntala, who is left heartbroken and humiliated. Dushyanta’s inability to recall his past actions, despite the strong bond he shared with Shakuntala, is a crucial turning point in his character arc. His forgetfulness, however, is not entirely his fault, as it is caused by the curse, but it does show his vulnerability and the human aspect of his character.
3. Regret and Realization : As the play progresses, Dushyanta’s regret becomes evident. Once he is reminded of his love for Shakuntala and his son, Bharata, he goes through an emotional transformation. The process of recognition is not just about remembering Shakuntala but also about understanding the deeper meaning of his actions and their consequences. His search for Shakuntala and his eventual reunion with her signify his redemption. The moment of recognition brings out his true nature—he is not just a king but a father and a lover who acknowledges his mistakes and seeks to make amends.
4. Divine and Human Aspects : Dushyanta’s character also blends both divine and human qualities. As a king, he is a man of authority, but as a lover and a husband, he is flawed and deeply human. His emotional journey represents the broader themes of memory, identity, and divine intervention, where human shortcomings are tempered by higher powers.
Conclusion : In conclusion, King Dushyanta is a character full of contradictions. He is noble and honorable but also forgetful and flawed. His character arc, from forgetfulness to recognition, represents the play’s central themes of love, redemption, and the power of memory. Through Dushyanta, Kalidasa explores the complexities of human nature, showing that even great men are susceptible to error, but through reflection and recognition, they can find redemption.
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