THE AESTHETICS OF THE ATTHAKATHA TEMIYA JATAKA

Abstract

          This research aims to study the aesthetics of the Atthakatha Temiya Jataka. The research  results show that the Atthakatha Temiya Jataka is a significant Buddhist literature with aesthetic elements. In the composition, literary devices are employed in uniting 3 literary elements of language, Bodhisattva characters, and important scenes. The linguistic aesthetics found are word choice and the use of figurative language whereas the aesthetics in creating Bodhisattva characters include the intellect in the awareness of defilements and the willingness to overcome the defilements. In terms of important scenes, the aesthetics are evidenced in the scenes of hell and chariot lifting, which create vivid images as well as communicate Buddhist religious messages with the audience resulting in the audience’s recognition of the Atthakatha Temiya Jataka.

           The above 3 aesthetic elements are united in the literature leading to the audience’s understanding, reasoning, as well as awareness of the Buddhist religious messages in the Atthakatha Temiya Jataka. It can be considered a method in building the intellect of the readers.