The Custom of Writing Epistles in the Pali <i>Jataka</i>

DOI

Bibliographic Information

Other Title
  • ジャータカにみる手紙
  • literacy in ancient India
  • 古代インド文字文化断章

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to contribute to the knowledge of the development of literacy in ancient India by researching the custom of writing epistles found in the Pall Jataka. Because this text contains many descriptions of epistles, some of which were written by townsmen and a merchant's wife, we can assume that the custom of writing epistles was more widespread than our current estimate. We can also find some indication regarding the types of materials that were used for writing epistles. Since we are aware of only two examples in canonical verses (gatha) and others in later commentaries (Jatakatthavannana, etc.), we cannot definitely ascertain the inception and duration of the custom of writing epistles in India. However, this research can help us acquire other information on this phase of development of literacy in ancient India.

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Details 詳細情報について

  • CRID
    1390282680355734144
  • NII Article ID
    130004027887
  • DOI
    10.4259/ibk.54.382
  • ISSN
    18840051
    00194344
  • Data Source
    • JaLC
    • Crossref
    • CiNii Articles
  • Abstract License Flag
    Disallowed

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