Contents: Preface. Scheme of transliteration. A note on the mode of presentation. 1. Introduction. 2. Examination of the poetic aspect. 3. Study of the biographical aspects. 4. Study of the philosophical aspects. 5. Study of the socio-cultural aspects. Customs and manners. Food and drink. Bibliography. Index.

"This work is my Ph. D. thesis. I have done a critical study of the Buddhacarita which is the most famous work amongst works of Asvaghosa the Buddhist poet and philosopher. Apart from the literary point of view, it has also importance from various other points of view. This work has historical importance and it also gives a description about the life and activities of Gautama Buddha along with the Buddhist philosophy. Besides, we may also know the socio-political and cultural history of the time." (jacket)