U.P.P.C.S. (Mains) 2009

The Golden Age of Sanskrit

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

Which of the following classical works of literature were written during the Gupta Era? 1. Amarakosh 2. Kamasutra 3. Meghaduta 4. Mudrarakshasa Select the correct answer from the codes given below:

Solution & Analysis

Answer: D

Concept The Gupta period (4th–6th century CE) is hailed as the 'Golden Age' of Sanskrit literature, characterized by the refinement of poetry, drama, and technical treatises.

Explanation All four works listed are pillars of Gupta-era scholarship: 1. Amarakosh: A lexicon by Amarasimha, one of Chandra Gupta II's 'Navaratnas'. 2. Kamasutra: Vatsyayana’s treatise on social life and aesthetics. 3. Meghaduta: Kalidasa's lyrical masterpiece. 4. Mudrarakshasa: Vishakhadatta’s political thriller.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: These works represent the diversity of Gupta thought—from lexicography (Amarakosh) to eroticism (Kamasutra) and high drama (Mudrarakshasa).
Logic 2: The standardization of Sanskrit as the language of the elite occurred during this period, allowing these texts to gain pan-Indian authority.

Active Recall

Question

Who was the most prominent dramatist of this era?

Answer

Kalidasa, who authored world-renowned works like Shakuntala and Meghaduta.

Core Insight

Gupta literature successfully synthesized secular themes with sophisticated linguistic structures, setting the standard for centuries.