[Solved] Mrichchhakatika: Themes of Shudraka's Famous Play

'Mrichchhakatika', an ancient Indian book written by Shudraka deals with:

[UPSC CSE Pre 2003]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

'Mrichchhakatika' (The Little Clay Cart) is a standout work in Sanskrit drama for its focus on common people and social realism rather than purely royal or mythological themes.

Authentic Source Evidence

Written by Shudraka, the play centers on the romance between Charudatta, a noble but impoverished merchant, and Vasantasena, a wealthy and virtuous courtesan (daughter of a courtesan).

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Unlike other heroic plays, this 'Prakarana' (type of play) deals with the life of a merchant (Charudatta) in the city of Ujjain.

Logic 2: Options B, C, and D describe political or royal histories (like Devichandraguptam or Allahabad Prasasti) which are not the subject of this specific work.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"What does 'Mrichchhakatika' mean?"

It translates to 'The Little Clay Cart', referring to a pivotal scene involving a toy cart made of clay.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"Shudraka's work is unique for its era because it portrays the struggles of the urban middle class and the complexities of social morality."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Ujjain 2