Indian Epic Structures explores how ancient Indian epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana were preserved through generations via oral tradition. It reveals the sophisticated methods used to transmit these narratives, focusing on oral formulas and thematic repetition. The book highlights how standardized phrases acted as mnemonic devices, aiding storytellers and audiences alike.
Similarly, recurring motifs and character archetypes provided a framework for improvisation while maintaining the epics' core elements. The book argues that these techniques were not merely memory aids, but intricate literary tools shaping the epics' structure and meaning. It examines the social and cultural context of ancient India, emphasizing the role of bards in preserving these stories.
Beginning with an introduction to the major epics, the book progresses to analyze oral formulas and thematic repetition, demonstrating their combined impact on the epics' enduring power and cultural relevance. This approach offers a unique perspective by blending textual analysis with performance theory, providing a holistic view of these narratives.