Savitri by Aurobindo Ghosh: Analysis (critical appreciation)

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Sri Aurobindo’s Savitri is an epic poem that stands as a remarkable contribution to English literature and spiritual philosophy. It is based on a tale from the Mahabharata but is transformed into a work of profound mysticism, symbolism, and philosophical depth. The poem explores the themes of love, fate, destiny, and the triumph of the human spirit over suffering and death.

Sri Aurobindo’s Savitri is not just a literary composition but a vision of human progress towards divine consciousness. It presents the journey of Savitri, who represents the force of truth and love, as she confronts death to reclaim her husband, Satyavan. The poem illustrates the struggle between ignorance and knowledge, mortality and immortality, and darkness and light. Through this, the poet conveys his vision of spiritual evolution, where the soul seeks to transcend limitations and attain divine realization.

Character sketch of SAVITRI

Sri Aurobindo's epic poem Savitri presents the character of Savitri as a woman of extraordinary strength, wisdom, and spiritual power. She stands as a symbol of divine love, perseverance, and the triumph of the soul over fate. In the poem, she is depicted as an ideal woman who embodies purity, devotion, and unwavering determination.

Savitri is portrayed as a princess who chooses Satyavan as her husband despite knowing that he is destined to die within a year. Her love for him is not based on worldly desires but on a deep spiritual connection. She does not allow fear or sorrow to weaken her resolve. Instead, she prepares herself to face the inevitable by cultivating inner strength and wisdom. Her character reflects patience, intelligence, and immense courage.

When the time of Satyavan’s death arrives, Savitri does not surrender to grief. She follows Yama, the god of death, with firm determination. She does not plead for mercy but engages in a profound dialogue with Yama, displaying her wisdom and spiritual insight. Her words reflect her deep understanding of life, destiny, and the power of human will. She does not merely seek the return of her husband; she argues for the eternal bond of love and the power of human aspiration to overcome fate.

Savitri’s character represents the ideal of feminine strength and grace. She is not a passive sufferer but an active force who challenges destiny itself. Her love is not selfish or weak; it is divine and transformative. She does not fight with weapons but with the power of her soul. Her devotion to her husband is not blind attachment but a conscious choice rooted in spiritual truth.

Through the character of Savitri, Sri Aurobindo conveys the message that true love and spiritual determination can transcend the limitations of fate. Savitri does not beg for Satyavan’s life; she reclaims it through her wisdom and divine power. Her character symbolizes the journey of the soul towards self-realization and ultimate victory over darkness and death.

Savitri is not just a literary figure but an eternal symbol of strength, devotion, and divine love. She embodies the highest ideals of womanhood, not in a submissive manner but as a force that can challenge even the laws of destiny. Her character serves as an inspiration for those who seek to overcome difficulties through inner strength and unwavering faith.

Themes:

The poem deeply engages with philosophical and spiritual concepts, making it a unique work in English literature. It presents the battle between fate and free will, showing Savitri as a symbol of human aspiration against the forces of determinism. She refuses to accept the decree of fate and challenges death itself, demonstrating the power of love, faith, and divine intervention. The poem emphasizes that human life is not bound by destiny alone, but has the potential to rise beyond suffering through inner strength and spiritual enlightenment.

Symbolism and Imagery:

Sri Aurobindo uses rich and profound symbolism throughout Savitri. The character of Savitri symbolizes divine love and truth, while Satyavan represents the soul struggling in the material world. Death is depicted as the force that binds human beings to ignorance and suffering. The journey of Savitri mirrors the quest of the soul towards self-realization and immortality. The imagery in the poem is vivid and often cosmic, as it describes celestial worlds, divine encounters, and the vast landscape of human consciousness.

Philosophical and Mystical Elements:

Sri Aurobindo’s philosophy of Integral Yoga is deeply embedded in Savitri. The poem reflects his belief in the evolution of human consciousness towards a higher spiritual existence. It suggests that through perseverance, devotion, and self-awareness, the soul can overcome mortality and attain divine grace. The concept of transformation is central to the poem, where the human being is seen as capable of evolving into a higher form of existence.

Language and Style:

Sri Aurobindo’s use of language in Savitri is highly poetic, rhythmic, and elevated. The poem is written in blank verse, which gives it a flowing and grand quality. The diction is often philosophical and spiritual, filled with profound expressions of truth, light, and divinity. The complexity of the language may be challenging for some readers, but it adds to the depth and richness of the poem. The tone varies from meditative and reflective to intense and dramatic, capturing the emotional and spiritual journey of the protagonist.

Conclusion:

Sri Aurobindo’s Savitri is a masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of literature and enters the realm of spiritual philosophy. It is not merely a retelling of an ancient legend but a profound exploration of human existence, divine intervention, and the power of love and truth. The poem serves as a guiding light for those who seek to understand the deeper meaning of life and the possibility of transformation through spiritual realization. Through Savitri, Sri Aurobindo presents a vision of hope, strength, and the ultimate victory of light over darkness.

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