The Positive Background of Hindu Sociology c11.s1.t37.3

c11.s1.t37.3

In comparison with Manu also Kauṭalya is considered to be "primitive." The *Arthaśāstra* permits the Brāhmaṇa to marry even a Śūdra woman. But the *Manu Samhitā* allows such unions although on second thought it condemns them. In the *Manu Samhitā* widow remarriage is forbidden while it is permitted in the *Arthaśāstra*. A wife is permitted by Kauṭalya even to desert her husband if he is of bad character, endangers her life and so forth. From the standpoint of juridical development Manu represents a much developed strand and hence a relatively recent age compared to Kauṭalya.