3 Review(s)

Vikram and the Vampire by Sir Richard F. Burton is a rich collection of entertaining Indian stories which tell us a lot about the ancient India’s tradition, life and customs. The book draws various themes of supernatural, grotesque, humour, irony, wit, deception, villainy, folly of human beings. These stories are comprised of various characters such as gods, demons, ghouls and kings, queens, scholars, fools, wild animals, bringing the mythic India to life.These stories are narrated by a mischievous spirit or vampire to the legendary King Vikram. The vampire begins with, “O King Vikram, listen to the true story which I am about to tell thee...” It vexes the King with stories that pose searching questions about the morals of life in ancient India. The King is also able to give quick, witty and thoughtful answers with his presence of mind. The difficulties that King Vikram faced, in bringing the vampire with himself to the sage is an amusing phase. These stories teach values like truthfulness, kindness, selflessness, etc. and are suitable for readers of all ages.