A History of Indian Literature v1.c8.s2.179

v1.c8.s2.179

We have another valuable fragment of the art of narration in ancient times, in the dialogue of Yama and Yamī (Ṛv. X, 10). An old myth of the origin of the human race from a first pair of twins underlies the conversation.³ Yamī tries to tempt her brother Yama to incest, in order that the human race may not die out. In passionate words, glowing with desire, the sister draws the brother on to love. In gentle, deliberate speech, pointing to the eternal laws of the gods, which forbid the union of blood-relations, Yama repulses her. These speeches, in which unfortunately there is still much obscurity, are full of dramatic strength. Yamī first says: