The “Mahabharata” and the “Ramayana” are considered the main works of ancient Indian epic literature. In this edition, following the example of N. A. Kuhn and his retellings of ancient myths, they were rendered in artistic prose and adapted for modern readers. In terms of their significance and character, these texts can be compared to Homer’s “Iliad” and “Odyssey.” At the same time, the plot of the “Ramayana” is partly reminiscent of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice and echoes A. S. Pushkin’s fairy-tale poem “Ruslan and Ludmila.”
The book begins with “The Tale of Rama”—an engrossing story of how the fierce ruler of the rakshasas, Ravana, kidnaps the beautiful Sita. Rama, gathering an army of monkeys, sets out to find her and goes through a series of trials and dangers.
“The Tale of Krishna” is devoted to the earthly journey of Vishnu’s incarnation. King Kansa is foretold that he will die at the hands of his sister’s eighth son, yet Krishna miraculously survives. From an early age he amazes people with strength and agility, and like the resourceful Odysseus, he outplays his enemies.
For those interested in Ancient India, the book includes an article that reveals the features of literary interpretation of these monuments.