Class 12 English — Chapter 20: Chandalika

What you'll learn

• ▸Transformation of the Buddhist Legend
• ▸Theme of Caste and Untouchability
• ▸Prakriti's Awakening and 'New Birth'
• ▸The Conflict of Love vs. Possession
• ▸Character Development of Prakriti
• ▸The Role of Magic as a Metaphor
• ▸Introduction to Dramatic Form
• ▸Tragedy of Over-reaching Self-Consciousness

Chapter Summary

--- PAGE 1 --- Drama INTRODUCTION A drama is a composition in prose or verse presenting in dialogue a story of life or character, especially one intended to be acted on the stage. The essence of drama is the make-believe by which an actor impersonates a character of the play. The element of make-believe in drama is much greater than the average play-goer realises. For instance, we must regard it as entirely natural that rooms and houses have one wall ‘missing’ that enables the audience to witness the action. Drama is usually divided into tragedy and comedy, but within this general framework a number of types and subtypes have been developed. The tragicomedy, for instance, mixes elements of both tragedy and comedy; the modern ‘problem-play’ deals with neither of these but with middle class life and problems. Furthermore, drama is the literary form most viable with the modern mass media; and film, radio and television are producing a vast quantity of it, ranging from ‘soa…

Practice Questions from this Chapter

Tap "Get Solution" on any question to ask our AI tutor.

1. Define "untouchability" easily. Get Solution →
2. Explore real-world magic tricks. Get Solution →
3. Discuss drama's impact on society. Get Solution →
4. Who is the author of the play 'Chandalika'? Get Solution →
5. What prestigious award was Rabindranath Tagore given in 1913? Get Solution →
6. What is the name of the main character, the 'chandalika' girl? Get Solution →
7. What did the monk Ananda ask Prakriti for when he met her at the well? Get Solution →
8. Prakriti's mother is knowledgeable in what art? Get Solution →

Did you know?

• 💡 The term "caste" originates from a Portuguese word meaning "pure breed" or "race".
• 💡 Ancient Babylonians used incantations and rituals believing they could influence gods and demons.
• 💡 Many historical societies had strict social classes where movement between them was impossible.
• 💡 Modern magicians use psychology and clever illusions, not actual magic, to astonish audiences.
• 💡 In some cultures, a person's shadow was once thought to hold their soul and be vulnerable to spells.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Chapters