About the book
This groundbreaking book is an elegant exploration of the Upanisads, often considered the fountainhead of the rich, varied philosophical tradition in India. The Upaniṣads, in addition to their philosophical content, have a number of sections that contain narratives and dialogues—a literary dimension largely ignored by the Indian philosophical tradition, as well as by modern scholars. Brian Black draws attention to these literary elements and demonstrates that they are fundamental to understanding the philosophical claims of the text.
Focusing on the Upanisadic notion of the self (ātman), the book is organized into four main sections that feature a lesson taught by a brahmin teacher to a brahmin student, debates between brahmins, discussions between brahmins and kings, and conversations between brahmins and women. These dialogical situations feature dramatic elements that bring attention to both the participants and the social contexts of Upanisadic philosophy, characterizing philosophy as something achieved through discussion and debate. In addition to making a number of innovative arguments, the author also guides the reader through these profound and engaging texts, offering ways of reading the Upaniṣads that make them more understandable and accessible.
Editions of The Character of the Self in Ancient India
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780791470138
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780791470145
- PDF
- ISBN 9780791480526
Read an Excerpt
This groundbreaking book is an elegant exploration of the Upanisads, often considered the fountainhead of the rich, varied philosophical tradition in India. The Upaniṣads, in addition to their philosophical content, have a number of sections that contain narratives and dialogues—a literary dimension largely ignored by the Indian philosophical tradition, as well as by modern scholars. Brian Black draws attention to these literary elements and demonstrates that they are fundamental to understanding the philosophical claims of the text.
Focusing on the Upanisadic notion of the self (ātman), the book is organized into four main sections that feature a lesson taught by a brahmin teacher to a brahmin student, debates between brahmins, discussions between brahmins and kings, and conversations between brahmins and women. These dialogical situations feature dramatic elements that bring attention to both the participants and the social contexts of Upanisadic philosophy, characterizing philosophy as something achieved through discussion and debate. In addition to making a number of innovative arguments, the author also guides the reader through these profound and engaging texts, offering ways of reading the Upaniṣads that make them more understandable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Character of the Self in Ancient India about?
This groundbreaking book is an elegant exploration of the Upanisads, often considered the fountainhead of the rich, varied philosophical tradition in India. The Upaniṣads, in addition to their philosophical content, have a number of sections that contain narratives and dialogues—a literary dimension largely ignored by the Indian philosophical tradition, as well as by modern scholars. Brian Black draws attention to these literary elements and demonstrates that they are fundamental to understanding the philosophical claims of the text.
Focusing on the Upanisadic notion of the self (ātman), the book is organized into four main sections that feature a lesson taught by a brahmin teacher to a brahmin student, debates between brahmins, discussions between brahmins and kings, and conversations between brahmins and women. These dialogical situations feature dramatic elements that bring attention to both the participants and the social contexts of Upanisadic philosophy, characterizing philosophy as something achieved through discussion and debate. In addition to making a number of innovative arguments, the author also guides the reader through these profound and engaging texts, offering ways of reading the Upaniṣads that make them more understandable and accessible.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in The Character of the Self in Ancient India?
Philosophy and Religion > Religion and beliefs > Hinduism
Where can I read a sample of The Character of the Self in Ancient India?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780791470138
How long is The Character of the Self in Ancient India and how many pages does it have?
The Character of the Self in Ancient India has 238 page(s)
Is The Character of the Self in Ancient India part of a series, and can it be read as a standalone?
Yes it is a part of series SUNY series in Hindu Studies
Who is/are the Author/s of the book The Character of the Self in Ancient India?
Brian Black
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
The Character of the Self in Ancient India is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780791470138) and paperback(ISBN 9780791470145) and pdf(ISBN 9780791480526)
Where can I buy The Character of the Self in Ancient India online or support local independent bookshops?
You can buy The Character of the Self in Ancient India from below
Where can I buy The Character of the Self in Ancient India?