Epic Syntax

This book studies Epic Sanskrit from a historical and comparative linguistic perspective. The author regards the Sanskrit epics as representing a distinct linguistic stage whose syntax cannot be adequately understood solely through the norms of Classical Sanskrit grammar. By comparing Epic usages with Vedic Sanskrit and later Indo-Aryan developments, the work identifies patterns of continuity, innovation, simplification, and grammatical change. Particular emphasis is placed on actual textual usage rather than prescriptive grammatical norms, making the volume an important reference for Sanskrit philology, historical linguistics, and the linguistic study of the Indian epics. 

Table of Contents

• Abbreviations

• Introduction

• Chapter I: Number

• Chapter II: Concord

• Chapter III: Syntax of Cases

  • Nominative

  • Accusative

  • Instrumental

  • Dative

  • Ablative

  • Genitive

  • Locative

• Chapter IV: Pronouns

• Chapter V: Use of Tenses

• Chapter VI: Use of Moods

• Chapter VII: Participles

• Chapter VIII: Indeclinable Past Participle or Gerund

• Chapter IX: Infinitive

• Chapter X: Particles

• Bibliography

• Errata