Reading Notes: Ramayana Part B

Bharata Goes to Find Rama [source]

Reading Notes 

Bharata Returns - It's quite interesting that all of this takes place without Bharata knowing. How could this be? None of Rama's brothers seem to begrudge him for his favor.

The Funeral - These traditions seem quite complicated. It'll be hard to recreate these traditions in my stories without knowing how these work and what they involve. 

Rama and Bharata - Why does Jabali say that Rama only has one life to live? My understanding of Hinduism is very small, but I thought they believed in reincarnation. 

The Sandals - I wonder if the sandals have some sort of deeper symbolism. Like is sandals used as a symbol elsewhere in the epics?

Anasuya - It's nice that Sita's qualities are praised more than her physical looks.

Viradha - Why is everyone so in love with Rama? He defeats someone, and they thank him for it.

Agastya - I have to try writing in this rhyming couplet style. Also, must remember to use lots and lots of similes.

Shurpanakha - There are so many unexpected twists in this epic, and so many unexpected characters.

Lakshmana - "Hell hath no fury then a woman scorned." Another example of a strong female character.

Battle with Khara -There are so many characters in this epic. Also, this epic does use strong hyperbole.

Ravana - Such an appeal to his manliness/pride

Maricha - More descriptive language

Golden Deer - If rakshasas are wont to take the form of deer, why would he assume the form of a deer?

The Chase - I had higher hopes for Sita - why is she so insensible?

Ravana and Sita - Lots of animal imagery 

Jatayu - Concept of sacrifice for the heavens, finally the heavenly storyline is back in full swing

Sita in Lanka - I'm very happy she was protected. But why wasn't he punished more for his crime?

Rama and Jatayu - This is the first time Rama seems human. Sita is his weakness.

Kabandha - Rakshasas don't all want to be rakshasas?

Bibliography - Multiple Authors. Public Domain Ramayana. Link.