Five And Twenty Tales Of The Genie by Sivadasa (Penguin Classics)

Description

“Five and Twenty Tales of the Genie” is a collection of ancient Indian folktales attributed to the Sanskrit writer Sivadasa. These tales are part of a larger body of work known as “Katha Sarit Sagara” or “The Ocean of the Streams of Stories,” which is a famous collection of Indian fairy tales and legends.

Sivadasa’s “Five and Twenty Tales of the Genie” is a frame story, meaning that it consists of a main narrative that contains other, smaller stories within it. The central narrative revolves around a prince named Naravahanadatta and his adventures. As part of his journey, he encounters a magical genie who tells him a series of stories.

Each of the twenty-five stories within the collection explores various themes, including love, morality, wit, and the consequences of actions. The structure of stories within stories is a classic literary technique found in many cultures, and it provides a rich tapestry of narratives.

These tales showcase the storytelling traditions of ancient India and offer insights into the cultural and moral values of that time. The collection is considered a classic work of Indian literature and is celebrated for its imaginative narratives and the wisdom embedded in its tales.