6.1. Language and content

The version of the Mahabharata we have been considering is in Sanskrit (although there are versions in other languages as well). However, the Sanskrit used in the Mahabharata is far simpler than that of the Vedas, or of the prashastis discussed in Chapter 2. As such, it was probably widely understood.

The Mahabharata was written in Sanskrit, a classical language. However, the Sanskrit used in the Mahabharata is noted to be simpler compared to other ancient texts like the Vedas. This simplification means that it might have been more accessible to a broader audience, not just the elite or scholars. The ease of understanding would have allowed more people to connect with the stories and teachings within the epic.

Think of a children's storybook compared to a Shakespearean play. The children's story uses simple, straightforward language that kids can understand easily, while the Shakespearean play could be challenging for them due to its complex language. The Mahabharata serves a similar purpose in bringing profound stories to a wider audience.

Historians usually classify the contents of the present text under two broad heads – sections that contain stories, designated as the narrative, and sections that contain prescriptions about social norms, designated as didactic.

The Mahabharata is divided into two main types of content. The narrative parts tell powerful stories involving characters and events, which are meant to entertain and engage readers. Conversely, the didactic sections are more instructive, offering teachings or rules about social behavior. While these categories exist, they are not absolute, as some narrative parts may convey moral lessons, while some didactic elements might include stories as examples.

Consider a school curriculum that includes textbooks with both stories and educational lessons. The stories teach history through fascinating narratives, while the lessons provide rules and guidelines for learning. Both elements work together to create a comprehensive understanding of the subject.

Interestingly, the text is described as an itihasa within early Sanskrit tradition. The literal meaning of the term is 'thus it was', which is why it is generally translated as 'history'.

The term 'itihasa' literally means 'thus it was' and suggests that the Mahabharata is recognized as a historical document within Sanskrit tradition. However, historians debate whether the epic recounts actual historical events or if it merely preserves the cultural memory of conflicts and teachings. While it may capture a sense of historical truth, it should be noted that many elements may be mythologized rather than strictly factual.

This can be likened to modern adaptations of historical events in films. A movie might dramatize important historical events for entertainment, blending fact with fiction. While they may capture the essence of what happened, the portrayals are not always factual, just like the Mahabharata might weave together truths and legends.

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