- 1. The Recognition of Sakuntala, a timeless masterpiece by the eminent Sanskrit playwright Kālidāsa, is a poignant and emotionally charged drama that delves into themes of love, identity, and the inexorable fate that binds individuals to their destinies. Set in ancient India, the narrative revolves around the enchanting love story between Sakuntala, the beautiful daughter of the sage Vishwamitra and the nymph Menaka, and Dushyanta, a valiant king. Their fateful encounter takes place in the serene and lush hermitage where Sakuntala resides, and their love blossoms amidst nature's splendor, underscoring the profound connection between humanity and the natural world. However, the plot thickens as Dushyanta is compelled to leave her abruptly after a marriage ceremony sealed by a ring, which she is to keep as a token of his love. The crux of the story unfolds when Dushyanta, having forgotten Sakuntala due to a sage's curse, fails to recognize her when they cross paths again in his court. The emotional turmoil and suffering of Sakuntala, who invokes the memories of their love and struggles against the forces of fate and social norms, evoke a deep sense of empathy in the audience. The tragedy of lost memories, unfulfilled promises, and the quest for identity underscore the narrative's richness, while the themes of love's endurance and the power of recognition resonate deeply, culminating in a heartfelt reunion that reaffirms the bonds of love. This play not only illustrates Kālidāsa's masterful command of language and theatrical expression but also serves as a profound commentary on the nature of love and the inevitability of fate in human relationships.
Who is the author of 'The Recognition of Sakuntala'?
A) Vālmīki
B) Ban Zhao
C) Kālidāsa
D) Bhartrihari
- 2. Who is Sakuntala's love interest?
A) Vishwamitra
B) Dushyanta
C) Raghu
D) Kalidasa
- 3. What is the original language of the play?
A) Tamil
B) Sanskrit
C) Hindi
D) Pali
- 4. What does Dushyanta forget due to the curse?
A) Sakuntala's name
B) His family
C) His kingdom
D) His marriage to Sakuntala
- 5. How does the story of Sakuntala end?
A) With a battle for power
B) With Sakuntala's death
C) With Dushyanta losing his throne
D) With the reunion of Sakuntala and Dushyanta
- 6. What is the significance of the ring in the story?
A) It symbolizes their love and connection
B) It is just a piece of jewelry
C) It represents wealth
D) It is a royal artifact
- 7. Who aids Sakuntala in her moments of distress?
A) A wandering minstrel
B) Her friends
C) A rival queen
D) A powerful sage
- 8. Which literary period does Kālidāsa belong to?
A) Medieval Sanskrit literature
B) Ancient Greek literature
C) Modern Indian literature
D) Classical Sanskrit literature
- 9. Which emotion is predominantly displayed in the character of Sakuntala?
A) Greed
B) Hatred
C) Indifference
D) Love
- 10. What was Sakuntala's upbringing?
A) Raised in a hermitage
B) Raised in a palace
C) Raised in a city
D) Raised in a village
- 11. What is the literary form of 'The Recognition of Sakuntala'?
A) Poem
B) Novel
C) Play
D) Short story
- 12. Who raises Sakuntala?
A) Rishi Valmiki
B) Rishi Dadhichi
C) Hermit Kanva
D) Ashram Vashishta
- 13. What symbolizes Sakuntala's love for Dushyanta?
A) A flower
B) A bracelet
C) A necklace
D) The ring
- 14. What is Dushyanta's kingdom called?
A) Magadha
B) Ayodhya
C) Hastinapura
D) Mithila
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