Identifying the Author of Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol

The question asks us to identify the author of the renowned epic poem titled "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol". This is a significant work in modern Indian literature, known for its spiritual and philosophical depth.

Let's examine the options provided:

• Mahatma Gandhi: Known primarily for his role in India's independence movement and his writings on non-violence, truth, and satyagraha. He is not associated with writing epic poetry like "Savitri".
• Savitribai Phule: A pioneering social reformer, educator, and poet from Maharashtra, India. She played a crucial role in improving women's rights in India and is known for her work in education and her Marathi poetry, but not for "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol".
• Sri Aurobindo: A philosopher, yogi, guru, poet, and nationalist. After his political career, he developed his spiritual philosophy and wrote extensively on yoga, philosophy, and literature. "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol" is considered his magnum opus, an epic poem in blank verse based on the story of Savitri and Satyavan from the Mahabharata.
• Swami Vivekananda: An Indian Hindu monk, philosopher, and one of the most influential figures in the history of Hindu philosophy. He was a key figure in the introduction of Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world. While a prolific writer and speaker, "Savitri" is not attributed to him.

Based on the understanding of the works of these prominent personalities, "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol" is definitively authored by Sri Aurobindo.

Understanding Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol

"Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol" is an epic poem by Sri Aurobindo, consisting of twenty-four thousand lines. It is based on the famous story from the Mahabharata about Princess Savitri, who saves her husband Satyavan from the clutches of Yama, the god of death. However, Sri Aurobindo transforms this ancient tale into a profound spiritual epic, exploring themes of human destiny, the evolution of consciousness, the struggle between light and darkness, and the possibility of divine life on Earth. He worked on this poem for many years, and it is considered the most comprehensive expression of his spiritual and philosophical system, known as Integral Yoga.

Statement Analysis

• Statement on Mahatma Gandhi: Incorrect regarding the authorship of "Savitri".
• Statement on Savitribai Phule: Incorrect regarding the authorship of "Savitri".
• Statement on Sri Aurobindo: Correct; he is the author of "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol".
• Statement on Swami Vivekananda: Incorrect regarding the authorship of "Savitri".

Therefore, the individual who contributed the book "Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol" is Sri Aurobindo.

Revision Table: Key Literary Works and Authors

Additional Information on Savitri and Sri Aurobindo

Sri Aurobindo began writing "Savitri" in earnest around 1930, though he had worked on earlier versions. He continued revising and expanding it until his passing in 1950. The complete work was published posthumously in 1951. The poem is structured into twelve books, further divided into cantos. It uses the Savitri legend as an allegory for the human spiritual journey and the potential for transformation.

The poem is written in blank verse (unrhymed iambic pentameter) and is known for its elevated language, vast scale, and intricate symbolism. It is not merely a retelling of a myth but a vast canvas for exploring profound philosophical and spiritual concepts related to consciousness, evolution, and the divine.