The Pancatantra: The Book of India´s Folk Wisdom

"The Pancatantra is the most famous collection of fables in India and was one of the earliest Indian books to be translated into Western languages. No other work of Indian literature has had a greater influence on world literature, and no other colle c tion of stories has become as popular in India itself. Patrick Olivelle presents the Pancatantra in all its complexity and rich ambivalence, examining central elements of political and moral philosophy alongside the many controversial issues surro u nd ing its history. This new translation vividly reveals the story-telling powers of the original author, while detailed notes illuminate aspects of ancient Indian society and religion to the non-specialist reader.""A timely new translation and int ro duct ion, intelligent, and well informed. Olivelle has done a beautiful job in making these clear and faithful translations. His approach makes these timeless stories accessible to ordinary readers. His introduction offers background and sharp ana yls is.""- -William J. Jackson, Indiana University at Indianapolis""This is an up to date modern translation which will be found useful for all those interested in ancient fables of India.""--John Grimes, Michigan State University""This is without qu esti on the bes t English translation of the Pancatantra.""--Richard Lariviere, University of Texas at Austin""A very useful introduction and an excellent modern translation suitable for all ages. "