Description: Translated by the noted Victorian Orientalist, Sir Richard F. Burton, from the original Sanskrit, these ancient Indian folk tales influenced such later works as "1001 Arabian Nights" and Boccaccio's "Decameron." First published in 1870, these stories will entertain and delight modern readers while illuminating the life and customs of classical India.
Brief description: Sir Richard F. Burton (1821-1890) was one of the greatest traveler-explorers of history, whose life has recently been chronicled both in biography (Captain Sir Richard Burton) and film (Mountains of the Moon). Famous as the translator of The 1001 Arabian Nights, Burton also searched for the headwaters of the Nile, and was the discoverer of the central lakes of Africa. Orientalist, prolific author, and member of the Royal Geographic Society, he was one of the most remarkable and controversial men of his century.
Review Quotes: "Witty, entertaining, and illuminating of traditional Indian culture. The book will enrich the library of yoga students interested in exploring the mythic background in which yoga philosophy developed."-- "Yoga Journal"