Effect of the Female Body on Visual Stimulation: Based on “Kumari Vanum” From the Sinhala Epic Poem (Mahakavya) “Kāvsīlūmiṇa”

Abstract

Visual stimulation is a mental reaction from seeing or hearing, caused by lustful feelings—also known as visual lust or viewing lust. This viewing occurs with the mind as well as the eyes. Men enjoy the female body visually, prioritizing a woman's appearance over her inner self in relationships. The Sinhala Epic Poem (Mahakavya) “Kāvsīlūmiṇa” examines how the female body affects visual stimulation, with lust as its main flavor. How has the poet used the female body in the two “Kumari Vanum” praises to create visual stimulation and evoke desire? This study examines descriptive and metaphorical techniques in the “Kumari Vanum”, analyzes how they generate mental images and desire via semiotics, and demonstrates their role as a plot device in Kusa’s decision to marry. Using textual analysis, the semiotic approach follows Charles Sanders Peirce’s model: a sign represents an object and creates an interpretant (mental/emotional effect). Here, Object (Princess Pabavati’s idealized beauty), Sign (poetic descriptions/metaphors), Interpretant (mental image, arousal, Kusa’s marriage decision). Pre-seen signs visualize unfamiliar images; the two princess praises serve this purpose, inducing stimulation that matches the poetic content. Vivid imagery stimulates neurohormonal attraction, explaining the effect.