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Cover of Kamasutra With Ancient & Modern Illustrations

Kamasutra With Ancient & Modern Illustrations

Written by Vatsyayana

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250 pages, about 5 hours of reading

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About this book

Man should study the Kama Sutra and the arts and sciences subordinate thereto, in addition to the study of the arts and sciences contained in Dharma and Artha. Even young maids should study this Kama Sutra along with its arts and sciences before marriage, and after it they should continue to do so with the consent of their husbands. Here some learned men object, and say that females, not being allowed to study any science, should not study the Kama Sutra. But Vatsyayana is of opinion that this objection does not hold good, for women already know the practice of Kama Sutra, and that practice is derived from the Kama Shastra, or the science of Kama itself. Moreover, it is not only in this but in many other cases that though the practice of a science is known to all, only a few persons are acquainted with the rules and laws on which the science is based. Thus the Yadnikas or sacrificers, though ignorant of grammar, make use of appropriate words when addressing the different Deities, and do not know how these words are framed. Again, persons do the duties required of them on auspicious days, which are fixed by astrology, though they are not acquainted with the science of astrology. In a like manner riders of horses and elephants train these animals without knowing the science of training animals, but from practice only. And similarly the people of the most distant provinces obey the laws of the kingdom from practice, and because there is a king over them, and without further reason.[11] And from experience we find that some women, such as daughters of princes and their ministers, and public women, are actually versed in the Kama Shastra.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Kamasutra With Ancient & Modern Illustrations, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 12 hours
  • advanced
  • instructional
  • analytical
  • ancient

Vatsyayana's "Kamasutra" is far more than a mere manual on sexual positions; it is an ancient Indian treatise on the art of living well, encompassing the pursuit of *kama* (pleasure and desire) as one of the four principal aims of human life (*purusharthas*). The text systematically explores social conduct, courtship, marriage, family life, and the roles of men and women within society, offering guidance for a harmonious and fulfilling existence. It delves into the various facets of desire, not just physical intimacy, but also aesthetic appreciation, social grace, and emotional connection, framed within the cultural and philosophical context of ancient India. The inclusion of ancient and modern illustrations enhances its accessibility and visual understanding, making a complex historical document more engaging for contemporary readers.

“Man should study the Kama Sutra and the arts and sciences subordinate thereto, in addition to the study of the arts and sciences contained in Dharma and Artha.”

Key themes

Kama (Pleasure and Desire)
The central theme of the Kamasutra, Kama, is presented not merely as sexual gratification but as a broad concept encompassing aesthetic pleasure, emotional fulfillment, and the enjoyment of life's sensory experiences. Vatsyayana argues that Kama, when pursued judiciously and in balance with Dharma (righteousness) and Artha (economic prosperity), is essential for a complete and well-rounded human existence. The text systematically explores various facets of desire, from physical intimacy to social charm and artistic appreciation.
Dharma, Artha, and Kama (The Three Aims of Life)
The Kamasutra frames Kama within the larger Hindu concept of the Purusharthas, specifically its relationship with Dharma (moral and ethical conduct) and Artha (economic prosperity and worldly success). Vatsyayana emphasizes that these three aims should be pursued in balance, and that an excess of one at the expense of others leads to an unfulfilled life. This theme provides the ethical and philosophical backbone for the entire treatise, elevating it beyond a mere sex manual.
Social Etiquette and Courtship
Beyond explicit sexual instruction, the Kamasutra provides extensive guidance on social graces, effective communication, and the intricate dance of courtship. It details appropriate behavior in public, the cultivation of an attractive personality, the art of conversation, and strategies for attracting and maintaining relationships. This theme highlights the importance of social intelligence and charm in navigating interpersonal dynamics.

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