A Critique of Kavyanusasana by Bishnupada Bhattacharjee

Summary

1. Overview of Hemacandra’s Kavyanusasana: The work is described as an extensive compilation, with little originality in its approach to Sanskrit poetics. Hemacandra borrows significantly from earlier works like the Kavyamimansa of Rajasekhara, Kavyaprakasa, Dhvanyaloka, and Locana. Despite this, the Kavyanusasana does present some original thoughts, particularly in the treatment of certain topics. 2. Critical Views on Its Contribution: Hemacandra's treatise reflects the scholastic era rather than the creative period in poetics, as seen in earlier works by figures like Abhinavagupta. The work is more a systematization of existing knowledge rather than a pioneering text. 3. Debate on Poetic Composition and Material Prosperity: Hemacandra challenges Mammata’s claim that composing poetry leads to material success and skill in social interactions. He argues that these are not necessarily linked to poetic creation, offering alternative views on the purpose and rewards of poetry. 4. Differences with Mammata and Dhvanyaloka: - Lakshana: Hemacandra differs from Mammata on the concept of lakshana (indication). While Mammata recognizes traditional usage (ridh) as a prerequisite for lakshana, Hemacandra asserts that lakshana can be based solely on the purpose or intention behind the usage of a word. - Suggestion and Dhvani: Hemacandra disagrees with Anandavardhana's classification of suggestion (dhvani) into three categories based on material significance, arguing that all three categories share the same property of being poetic creations shaped by the poet’s imagination. 5. Examples of Poetic Devices: - Hemacandra critiques Mammata’s interpretation of the figure of speech aprastutaprasamsa (praise based on double meaning). He emphasizes that the context (prakarana) should dominate over etymological meanings, contrary to Mammata's view. - The article includes detailed examples from Sanskrit poetics, showing how Hemacandra’s interpretations sometimes differ from those of his predecessors, providing clarity on the role of context and imagination in poetic expression. 6. Mental States in Poetics: Hemacandra justifies Bharata's classification of mental states into permanent (sthayi-bhava) and transitory (vyabhicari-bhava), adding a psychological basis to the discussion, a departure from previous metaphysical interpretations. 7. Critical Insight into the Tradition: Hemacandra’s rational approach to poetic theory set him apart from other scholars of the time, as he sought reasonable foundations for accepted doctrines. His critiques and interpretations provide a deeper understanding of poetics, offering a more scientific approach to the classification of emotions and poetic expressions. 8. Chandanusasana: Following the Kavyanusasana, Hemacandra's Chandanusasana deals with Prakrit and Apabhramsa meters, offering valuable insights into the evolution of meters used in modern Indian languages. It contains 746 sutras divided into 8 chapters and is considered a significant work in both poetics and poetry.