Intermediate Sanskrit

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Intermediate Sanskrit is the second volume of the Sanskrit course, which begins with Foundation Sanskrit (Delhi: 2000). The first volume was well received, and has sold well. Both books introduce elements of vocabulary and grammar systematically. These are then used in stories, and further practice is given in exercises with translation from and into Sanskrit. Intermediate Sanskrit is based on a retelling of the Sanskrit epic, the Ramayana. It takes a significant step forward in introducing Sandhi, along with other elements of the language. However, it does this step by step, so that the picture is built up through the course, rather than in one go. This enables students to continue to develop their ability to read Sanskrit and understand how the language works, whilst also tackling a challenging area of the language.

David Hodgkinson studied at Balliol College, Oxford and then Trinity College, Dublin. He has strong interests in ancient languages, and considerable experience of teaching these languages to both adults and children. His first book was Foundation and more recently he has published articles on Classical Literature, and comparative studies between Greek and Sanskrit epic. He has a particular interest in how the messages ideas of the ancient can be applied today to enable to live more fulfilled lives, and to realise their potential. Such work is inspired largely by the Vedic tradition, which powerfully presents the deeper potential of each of us.

Sanskrit is a very powerful language, with a rich and varied literature, which has both entertained and inspired millions over the years. I hope that this book, based as it is on the stoy of one of the world's greatest epics, will enable others to access something of the wealth available in this language.

In the study of any subject, the key principles are few in number, but the ways in which they show themselves are often multifarious. For example, the three basic sub-atomic particles - electron, proton and neutron - give us over one hundred chemical elements, and their combinations all that we see around us. Likewise in Sanskrit there may be only three genders, but there is a myriad of forms for each. To master any subject these principles must be clear and then the forms can be easily learnt. In the case of Sanskrit, the thorough knowledge of both principle and form is essential for a fluent, clear and full understanding of the language. Once this is in place the treasury of Sanskrit literature may be opened. A book such as this is merely a key to open its door, and let the treasure that lies hidden be revealed.

This volume is intended to follow on from Foundation Sanskrit which presents the basic principles of Verbs and Nouns. Intermediate Sanskrit continues this by looking at the many forms which they may take. The principles behind these are no different, but the forms vary greatly.