Even though Homer's The Odyssey (eighth century B.C.) and Kalidasa's Sakuntala (fourth century A.D.) were written more than twelve centuries a part, many similarities can be found in the roles that the rulers in each play. The stories not only reflect the values of the cultures and times, but they also give a glimpse into the public and private lives of the nobility. Based on the vivid descriptions of their interactions with others and private thoughts, insight is gained into the responsibilities and obligations of each. These responsibilities are most apparent in the main 'rulers' of each story--Odysseus from The Odyssey and Dusyanta from Sakuntala. Although the men are put into extremely different circumstances in their respective stories, several similarities in their roles as leaders are apparent. These include helping and protecting others, being just and delivering justice, and ensuring the future of the ruling family.

Both men are portrayed as protectors in times of crises. They are looked upon for protection and help when others are in need. This is seen in Book X when Odysseus and his men land on Aiaia. They had just escaped destruction by the Laistrygonians w

The visit by the policemen and the captured fisherman reflect on another side of Dusyanta's role in justice. Until the visit, Dusyanta's character has been limited to that of a lovesick ruler who takes hunting trips for leisure. At this point he becomes a man who must also deal with the criminals in society and decide their fate. Evidence for this is found when the Magistrate says to the policemen, "I'll report / to the king how we found the ring, [and] get his orders" (28-29). In saying that they must get orders from the king, Dusyanta's job as a 'judge' is confirmed to the reader. When they do get his orders, they are surprised to find that instead of punishing the fisherman, the king rewards him. Even though the reward is for helping the king to remember his lover, Sakuntala; the scene adequately conveys to the reader his part in the justice system.

Dasyunta takes on a similar role in Sakuntala, only here the circumstances are different. Rather than dealing with people who betray him, Dasyunta is portrayed as a king who is responsible for justice and who, like Odysseus, wants to do the right thing. This is seen in his encounter with Sakuntala in Act V, and his dealings with the fisherman in Act VI.

Dusyanta is also called upon for protection in several instances when others are threatened. Three times he is called to ward off demons and spirits, and at least twice he is referred to as the protector of people and the land. Whereas Odysseus is seen more as a warrior-provider while at sea, Dusyanta's condition is that of a warrior-religious leader. When there is a threat of evil, he is expected to intervene and ensure peace. This role is evident in Act II when the two boys bring the news that "Demons are taking advantage of Sage Kanva's absence" (207), and tell him that he must go and protect the hermitage for a few days. Since the hermitage is under his protection, as is pointed out by Priyamvada and Anasuya, he obliges willingly. Apparently, the absence of good-Sage Kanva-is like a door open to the forces of evil. Since Dusyanta is king and is seen as the most god-like (good) human, a request for his service and not another sage's is appropriate.

A final point of comparison between the two men is that both must secure the future of the ruling family. In The Odyssey, the problem lies in the fact that although Odysseus has produced an able leader before leaving for Troy, it is uncertain whether or not Telemakhos will be his successor. In response to a comment from Eurymakhos about taking the throne, Telemakhos admits:

All I insist on is that I rule our house

Kalidasa. Sakuntala. Trans. Barbara Stoler Miller. 1984. Ed. Maynard Mack. New York:

W.W. Norton Company, 1995. 1181-1242.

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1854
Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page double spaced)