So far in Sanskrit class, the focus has been on translation from Sanskrit to English. Due to structural differences with the languages, exact translation is problematic; rather, it is more important to demonstrate an understanding of meaning. Typically, each week we discuss a chapter from the text, which covers vocabulary, grammar, and structure. Poetical structure is the most interesting. In case you're interested, here is an example of a verse from my homework:

My translation (and this is an appropriately rough translation for a first year student) is:

A wise man should think of desire, knowledge and wealth as if ageless and immortal. He should practice virtue as if grabbed by the hair by death.

Sanskrit's poetry really comes though with this last bit, so grave and dramatic, even melodramatic. On the light side: according to this verse, death's grip on me will become more difficult with each passing year.

Posted by David | Permalink