Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Genre: Literary Criticism, Comparative Literature, Buddhism, Cultural Studies, Philosophy, Sri Lankan Authors, Academic

Book Review (English):
''Martin Wickramasinghe's 'The Buddhist Jataka Stories and the Russian Novel' is a fascinating and erudite work that bridges Eastern and Western literary traditions. Wickramasinghe, a cornerstone of modern Sinhalese literature, brings a unique comparative lens to this study. He moves beyond surface-level similarities to delve into the core existential and moral concerns shared by these seemingly disparate canons: the Jataka tales with their focus on karma, rebirth, and ethical conduct, and the Russian novels with their intense psychological and spiritual torment. The book is not just for specialists; Wickramasinghe's clear prose and insightful analysis make complex ideas accessible. He demonstrates how both traditions, rooted in their specific cultural soil, seek to understand suffering, redemption, and the human condition. This work is essential reading for anyone interested in comparative religion, world literature, or the intellectual contributions of Sri Lanka's foremost man of letters. It is a testament to Wickramasinghe's vast scholarship and his ability to find profound dialogue between cultures.''