The Aesthetic Experience According to Abhinava Gupta

“The Aesthetic Experience According to Abhinava Gupta” by R. Gnoli is a profound scholarly work that delves into the aesthetic theories of Abhinava Gupta, one of the most celebrated philosophers and aestheticians in the history of Indian thought. Abhinava Gupta, a prominent figure in the Kashmir Shaivism tradition, made significant contributions to the understanding of aesthetics, particularly through his concept of rasa (aesthetic flavor).

Key Features:
1. Exploration of Rasa Theory:

R. Gnoli provides an in-depth analysis of Abhinava Gupta’s interpretation of rasa, which is central to Indian aesthetics. Rasa, according to Abhinava, is the essence or flavor that art evokes in the audience, leading to an experience of profound joy and emotional engagement.
The text discusses the various types of rasas (such as love, heroism, and tranquility) and how these are produced and experienced in the context of art, particularly in drama and poetry.
2. Philosophical and Theoretical Context:

The book places Abhinava Gupta’s aesthetic theories within the broader context of his philosophical system, which integrates elements of metaphysics, psychology, and theology. Abhinava’s insights are rooted in the non-dualistic philosophy of Kashmir Shaivism, which emphasizes the unity of the aesthetic experience with spiritual realization.
3. Comparative Analysis:

R. Gnoli draws comparisons between Abhinava Gupta’s aesthetic theories and those of other philosophers, both within the Indian tradition and in Western aesthetics. This comparative approach highlights the uniqueness and universality of Abhinava’s ideas.
4. Detailed Commentary and Interpretation:

The book includes detailed commentary and interpretation of key texts by Abhinava Gupta, such as his seminal work “Abhinavabharati,” which is a commentary on Bharata Muni’s “Natyashastra.” Gnoli elucidates the complex and nuanced arguments presented by Abhinava, making them accessible to contemporary readers.
5. Impact on Indian Aesthetics: