Week 1 Reading Diary: Ramayana PDE

   Notes for Ramayana by Valmiki

     Many characters introduces very quickly

-          Not sure how it’s possible to raise 60 thousand kids!

-          Rama and Lakshmana both think that Sita is beautiful. I thought that there was going to be conflict between the two brothers, but everything turned out fine between the two

-          Reading this has made me wonder how much of my own religion is not as simple as I think. This story is a little difficult at times to follow because I am not familiar with some of the words or symbols. I bet similar things happen when others explain religious beliefs that they have become very familiar with

-          I find it interesting that during Rama and Sita’s wedding, holy water was sprinkled on their heads. This is similar to baptism that is performed at many Christian churches. I’m not sure what the meaning of the blessed water is in this story, but I would assume that it has a similar meaning.

-          This is a classic plot where one of the antagonists (Kaikeyi) finds a weakness about the protagonist (the 2 favors Dasharetha owes to Manthara). This turn of events gives the villain a chance to win

-          I’m not sure why, but Manthara’s description reminds me of the creepy lady (the one that turns giant). See image below.

-          Dasharatha is having true remorse for his previous actions. What he did in the past is not affecting him, but is affecting his son.

-          Rama didn’t say much when he was told that he would be going to exile. It really shows the loyalty and trust that he has for his dad.                

Manthara (Wayang Kulit puppet)