Week 10: Reading Diary- The Day I Questioned Reality

A long time ago, my brothers and I were living in the forest.  We enjoyed the woodland creatures as well as the fresh plants and meats available for our consumption whenever we got hungry.  One day, a Brahmin found us though and was in desperate need of help.  He told us that his staff and kindling were taken.  He was on his way to make a sacrificial fire and out of the blue, a huge buck took it.  The Brahmin was elderly and frail, so we agreed to try and help.  My brothers and I ran after the deer for hours.  It’s large graceful bounds outpaced our shorter strides.  Our bodies had been conditioned by living in the forests, but we were not ready for this kind of physical challenge.  We tried our best to beat the deer and save the brahmin’s belongings- after all, if we caught the deer, we would have a dinner out of the meat. After a couple hours, we gave up.  We lost sight of the deer and were far from the area of the forest we typically reside in.  Luckily, we all stumbled upon a river flowing into a lake with cool, crisp water.  My brother Nakula was the first to find the lake so he took a drink first.  I’m not sure what happened, but he died on the spot.  It was horrifying.  My brothers and I were talking and then when we looked back up, Nakula was on his side and had stopped breathing.  My conclusion was that maybe he ran to hard and his heart had given out.  It was extremely sad.  Before we could carry his body back to bury it, the rest of us still needed water.  Sahadeva was the next to take a drink.  He made some sort of weird hand motion as if he was shushing someone but no one but us were there and we certainly weren’t talking in memory of our brother.  Crazy enough, he died on the spot as well.  I could not believe my eyes.  I was extremely distraught but also couldn’t really believe what was happening.  Arjuna and Bhima took a drink at the same time and they, as well, died from some mysterious force.  I was extremely upset and didn’t know what to do.  My body was crying from fatigue and my heart was broken by this point.  I went to get a drink and heard a voice.  I talked to the voice out of curiosity.  Sure enough, it turned out to be my father Yama.  My whole world was turning upside down at this point…my brothers came back to life…and I remain very confused.

Large deer.

(Source:  Wikipedia)

Author's Note:  When I read this tale in the book, I could not even begin to put into words the emotions that would have been felt throughout this whole experience.  One minute, the brothers are chasing a deer together and the next minute, all but one are dead.  Thus, I wanted to try and explain the thoughts that may have accompanied this scene.

Buck, William (1973).  The Mahabharata.

Week 11: Reading Diary A/B

The monkey and the crocodile story is fun to read- simple language and it reminds me of stories I read when I was younger.  The crocodile is so not smart though.  I enjoy the cunningness of the monkey and at the end how he was still on alert even though the crocodile claimed to leave him alone in the future.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-monkey-and-crocodile.html

Again, the turtle is very clever- I really like these stories.  On a more superficial note, how could the king think the turtle is a demon?  I could see if the boys had never seen one they’d be scared but the king?

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-how-turtle-saved-his-own.html

The poor turtle.  I understand that too much talking can get one in trouble, but I also dislike how talking is somewhat portrayed as foolish.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-turtle-who-couldnt-stop.html

I love how all these stories are so simple and easy to read yet make good points.  The man should have known better than to treat his ox harshly maybe in an attempt to look more manly in front of many men.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-ox-who-won-forfeit.html

As this story exemplifies, working together is so crucial.  I have seen this commonly on sports teams- if there’s quarreling or drama, the team falls apart.  Also, being a part of the RA staff, we have to all work together to keep things running smoothly and then the job is easier and more fun.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-quarrel-of-quails.html

This story is so true and so relatable.  Gossip gets spun out of control.  Whether or not the story changes, the original source may be terribly inaccurate and before long, many people are shocked/scared for absolutely no reason.  It’s good to verify some things before believing them and the lion does a good job of showing how important that is.  I also found it fitting that the lion was one to verify since he seems to run the show in his environment.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-foolish-timid-rabbit.html

I don’t really get the moral of this story- if you work too hard, you’ll be taken away from where you want to be?

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-kings-white-elephant.html

Again, the point of this story is not entirely obvious- be clever and catch wrongdoers?  I’m not really sure but the story was entertaining nonetheless.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-girl-monkey-and-string-of.html

Reading Unit home page:  http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/myth-folklore-unit-jataka-tales-babbitt.html

What a sad story.  At least the daughters had it right.  I think it’s sad the mother thought the goose wanted something from them at first.  I wish the goose came back to show her what she had done although the mother may have not recognized the goose at all if it looked like other geese.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-golden-goose.html

Another sad tale- that’s too bad.  I hope the gardener didn’t get fired over this incident.  At least the intentions of the monkeys were good even though their actions were bad.  I wonder if monkeys are supposed to be not very smart in the culture although Hanuman was very smart.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-stupid-monkeys.html

I don’t like how the lion was so ungrateful.  The woodpecker was very smart though to prop the lion’s mouth open in the event that the lion decided to eat the woodpecker.  The lion sounds awfully full of himself though to assume he does so much for the woodpecker.  I mean really, what does he do?  Not try to eat him every day?  It’s not like the lion could even get food for the woodpecker since their diets are so different.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-woodpecker-and-lion.html

The wolf is sly- his perspective was not stealing but saw the fish as compensation for settling an argument.  Sneaky….

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-otters-and-wolf.html

Based off of this story, I take back my previous idea that maybe monkeys were considered not as intelligent since in this instance, the chief monkey was very wise and was rewarded greatly for it.  That’s nice the king kept his promise- what a nicer, happier tale.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-how-monkey-saved-his-troop.html

What a nice story.  I like how they all worked together.  It would have been perhaps a little bit nicer if they were friends long before they were needed since it sort of seemed somewhat odd that their friendship would have formed right before.  Also very odd a lion is in the same environment as the other creatures (mostly the turtle).  However, I liked how they had one another’s backs- that’s so nice.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-hawks-and-their-friends.html

Again, a sad story- I applaud that the wolf tried to get better and stronger.  I hate that the story seems to say that one should be afraid of failure because everyone will fail at some point but it will lead to more successes (usually).

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-foolhardy-wolf.html

The poor parents of the lion- they must be so sad.  This is a bit of a jump but I feel like this is what can happen in life and specifically college- some people fall into peer pressure and make friends with who they are told not to and really end up hurt from it.  Of course, it can happen any stage of life but college gives freedom that oftentimes results in bad decisions.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-lion-in-bad-company.html

Cute tale of friendship (no pun intended)- this was a great story to end on.

http://mythfolklore.blogspot.com/2014/05/jataka-tales-elephant-and-dog.html

Week 10: Reading Diary B

This last part of the story was really confusing to me.  Thus, I’m very glad there’s a reading guide to clarify things for me.  To start, I’m glad someone is finally getting the peace and justice thing right – however, that is merely a wish and Duryodhana knows that but still plans on being aggressive and wants to abduct Krishna.  I wanted to laugh when Duryodhana realizes he can’t take him captive – thank goodness.  Someone cannot do something as terrible as they want to.  Krishna is also divine so even if Duryodhana was able to abduct him, there would probably be some pretty severe consequences for abducting a divinity.  So really, Krishna was almost doing him a favor by not being abducted.  Anyways, Bhishma obviously doesn’t get the memo and wounds Krishna.  I wonder why Arjuna shot Bhishma – I feel like Krishna is more than capable of fighting his own battles.  For sure, it was helpful for Krishna but if I was Krishna, I would want an opportunity to show off my powers in an attempt to get people to realize they need to leave me alone.  Skipping forward, is Bhima a vampire or what?  Drinking blood is super nasty and was destroying the body not enough.  That was very disturbing to read.  The ending is sort of unexpected and crazy.  It surprises me that Krishna is killed.  He’s a divinity—can he really even die?  Also, it was in such a not epic way and was a little crazy.  I guess maybe it’s better to go out not in a violent battle but in peace, but I’m just really surprised that a divine being would be killed by a misconception.  To me, it was unexpected.  In conclusion, I liked this book but found it a lot harder to follow along than the “Ramayana.”  Also, I’m a sucker for love stories and heroes and like justice so reading this was a bit harder since there wasn’t much love if any (depending on how you see it) and there were lots of curses and I didn’t feel there was a lot of justice.  However, I definitely respect the work as a whole and just because it is not my favorite, that doesn’t mean it isn’t an admirable piece of writing (which it is).  I am planning on reading the D2L readings for my other reading diaries to help change it up and hope I find them more interesting.

Week 10: Reading Diary A

I think it is so not smart that Durodhana decides to make a royal camp near the Pandavas for the mere reason mock them.  One, he fell into peer pressure if Shakuni convince him to do it and two, I feel like it’s so stupid to make more enemies than necessary.  I mean really, if I were him, I’d try to keep as much peace as possible.  When he gets kidnapped, I feel bad for him but at the same time, maybe it’s good for him to learn to not assume so many of the others are weak and couldn’t cause havoc.  It’s super creepy with the voice and the lake thing.  For one, if that happened to me, I would assume that I was going crazy/was in desperate need of water and would ignore the voice.  If I were in their shoes, that would have resulted in death.  I’m surprised Yudhishthira actually does answer the voice.  Also, I’m surprised he didn’t yell at the voice – after all, his brothers are dead! I mean what kind of person would remain calm after that.  Anyways, I’m glad Yama brings them back but I would at least be a bit frustrated with my dad if he killed me.  Sure, he brought them back to life but still, that’s a little extreme.  It is really frustrating that the king and queen wanted to exile Draupadi for the mere fact that she was the victim of rape.  That’s a terrible thing in it of itself and now she is having to pay the consequences?  I understand that the king and queen are probably shaken up by the aggressive acts in the kingdom but still, I feel as if they are not really being reasonable at this point.  I also wonder why Draupadi wanted to remain in the court.  If I was in that position, I would want to get away from a place with such terrible memories.  Honestly, I don’t really like this book as much as I liked the “Ramayana,” since it seems so sad and depressing.  I just feel like everyone gets cursed or something terrible happens to them and then they must pay for it.  I wonder if this is considered to be as classic as the “Ramayana” and if so, that’s really strange to me since it’s so dark.   I wonder what lessons people are supposed to get out of this book and would be curious to find out.  

Week 9: Reading Diary B

Why is the minister cunning?  I feel like that's so contradictory... I think it’s good that Bhishma and Vidura push Dhritarashtra towards making peace.  For one thing, it’s a good thing to do – having enemies isn’t good and oftentimes, tension can be resolved by simply communicating.  Two, in this world, people all over are being cursed so if he wants to avoid worse things happening, this may be a good first step.  Also, I think it’s really strange that it was frowned upon to kill a deer, but now someone is being rewarded for burning down a forest full of birds and animals so that Agni could consume the animal fat as he chose.  I think that’s pretty confusing- either it’s not acceptable to kill animals or it is (in their culture).  I suppose in today’s world, we are split on that but in terms of punishing/cursing someone, I feel like there should be a more definite answer so someone would know what he/she was getting into.  I think that it’s wise that Draupadi doesn’t use all of her wishes up – she basically asks for things to be in the state they were before the gambling, and she doesn’t ask for anymore.  I think this is smart because it helps avoid an unnecessary war.  I find it slightly strange that Draupadi is not criticizing Yudhishthira for being forgiving when before it seemed as if she was really trying to make peace when she didn’t overstep her bounds on her wishes.  As for the whole mantra, I feel like that’s totally unfair to be able to say some magical words and automatically get weapons and have an advantage over one’s enemies.  I’m glad that Arjuna is actually blessed out of the initial curse – I feel like there’s so much war, death, and deceit in this story it’s nice to see that every once in a while, some people have good stuff happening.  

Week 9: Reading Diary A

I feel like Santanu should have almost expected something crazy to happen when the woman said she will have freedom to do whatever she wants if she marries him – just saying.  Also, poor Santanu- he seems to keep falling for women who cause him more trouble than good.  In a way, maybe it’s not so bad because maybe it’s a plot devised by the gods and he needs to be with these women to have sons with certain characteristics, but I still think it is pretty unfortunate for him.  It’s kind of Bhishma to step down from the throne for the sake of his father – I wonder why he was so willing to do it.  Solely out of love for his father or perhaps he was scared to have the throne all to himself?  Either way, it must have been a little bit more comforting to have other brothers since his father probably scared him a little bit about the risk of only having one heir with all the danger that comes associated with being the heir.  I feel really bad for the Ambika, Ambalike, and the servant who were forced to sleep with someone, especially when they didn’t know the person and they were scared of him.  I hate that their kids have to live lives at a disadvantage because of their mothers’ states upon conception (except for the servant’s child, of course).  I also think it’s rather unsmart for Dhritarashtra’s wife to be blind with her husband – it’s loving, of course but I feel like she’s not going to be able to help her husband in that state and she probably won’t even be able to take care of her own self.  It’s pretty terrible either way but man, these families seemed to be cursed pretty harshly.  I also find it really unfortunate that Panda is also now cursed.  Sure, he shouldn’t have shot a deer (especially in that situation) but really, he didn’t know it was a celestial being.  It surprised me that there was, in this story, a good thing that happened- Kunti had a son with the sun god and the son was rescued.  Yeah, it wasn’t good to send her son down a river in hopes that nothing would kill it, but the son was taken in by a couple which was very nice and unexpected.  More exile- why?  Being liked by the people you are ruling isn’t a bad thing at all- it’s actually a great thing! Sure, I understand being jealous but he is being helpful.  

Week 8: Reading Diary- Self Assessment

I feel like my reading diaries have been okay so far.  I always look over the reading diary instructions every week to make sure that I do them correctly and haven’t forgotten anything.  Of course, it’s always possible I overlook something, but I’m fairly sure they adhere to the instructions provided.  All my reading diaries are about the same length.  Towards the beginning, the author’s note was pretty short but then they got longer as the semester progressed.  I don’t have any tips for other students- they are all doing great jobs! My posts are pretty short but always meet the minimum number of words.  I do include images and have not done any quotes- that’s a great idea though!  I feel like I’m putting in good effort and I always do the reading, but I am simply not very creative so my posts are not too interesting. I’ve been really impressed by my classmates’ posts though.  For this reason, I’m trying to pour in extra time into my storybook.  For this class, I remember some of the reading such as the main points, but not all of it.  I remember more from Narayan than from Buck.  For my other classes, most of the information is put into lecture slides and I focus more on that than textbook reading.  As for reading strategies, it helps to have a summary to go off of first (which you have provided) which helps me keep track of the context and what to look for.  That’s been very helpful and helps me make sure that I understand the major plot points even if I don’t remember all of the small details.   On another note, the summaries provide me big events and sometimes I choose to capitalize on the details for my storytelling post because they are just that- small, barely mentioned points in the story that have a lot of room for creativity.

Week 7: Reading Diary B

I wonder if it was an emotional time for Rama as he shows Sita where they passed through along their way to rescue her- past the site where they had to burn Jatayu’s body, where they met Hanuman, etc.  Wow, it’s crazy to think how different this story would have turned out if they hadn’t met Hanuman.  It’s cool that Sita is now pregnant, but it is so maddening what Rama does.  For one, he bases his action to kick Sita out based off of the gossip of the townspeople.  Two, he doesn’t even talk to Sita about this- he goes completely behind her back to abandon her after all the trust, hope, and love she had put in him.  Three, he knows this will most likely result in her death and is entirely okay with it.  Rama is definitely not one of my favorite characters anymore.  It’s very strange that Rama doesn’t want Sita anymore but has a statue of her at the festival- very creepy and weird.  Maybe he regrets his decision?  It was very brave of Sita to come back to Rama and try to prove her innocence.  Perhaps, this would be a good place in the timeline for my storybook to “happen.”  Anyways, it’s very strange she’s taken into the ground and man, would that not be scary at all?  Poor Sita- dragged away again unwillingly.  Sure, it’s a nicer supernatural being this time but still, very scary.  It’s sort of extreme the extent of repercussions that Kala wants to be instilled if anyone messes up the meeting between him and Rama.  I wonder if the hermit would actually do all that he’d say or if he’s just trying to be scary.  However, with this sort of book and characters, I wouldn’t put it past them.  It’s so sad that Lakshmana has to die.  He has been such a hard-working, sacrificial, obedient, kind person this whole story and now he has to die for this? It just doesn’t seem right.  The end of the book is very strange.  I think it’s weird that Rama can die but Vibhishana can’t.  I thought Rama was an incarnation of Vishnu so would that not make him immortal?  Anyways, well-written novel, it just seems very weird to me (in all honesty) but probably that’s only because these aren’t stories I grew up on- I’m sure people from outside my culture would think stories I’m used to are very weird as well. 

Week 7: Reading Diary A

I know Ravana has been quite cocky throughout the story, but really- he’s even cocky to time which I feel like sort of rules all.  He’s being really unreasonable.  I think he’s in the middle of a power-hungry trance and can’t really break free.  Other people in the story such as the monkey Hanuman fought had one warning, but Ravana has had so many and he still is just as confident as ever.  I’m starting to think that this isn’t just about Sita anymore and maybe is about a lot more.  The fight scene was definitely extremely intense.  With all the arrows flying and detail, it was quite exciting.  However, I didn’t really get the whole green skin thing and the arrow that broke on Rama’s leg and then was thrown at Ravana?  Anyways, it still sounded very intense.  I think it must have been so discouraging for Rama to cut off Ravana’s heads and have them grow right back.  I’m not really sure what Rama would have been thinking or feeling at this time, but he is a warrior through and through so I’m sure he kept his “head in the game” and stayed focused because oftentimes willpower/mindset is what will get you beat over any physical strength/ability battle.  I think it’s neat that Buck added in his own part of the story and that Ravana even begs for Rama to take Sita back.  Quite a turn of events- I’m surprised that Ravana stoops to that level.  I could see him mentally accepting defeat but writing it in a letter to his enemy is a step past that.  I also find it interesting that Vibhishana makes the plans for Ravana’s funeral even though he betrayed Ravana in a way.  I guess he still cared for Ravana even though he didn’t necessarily approve of his actions.  Poor Mandodari- it must have been so difficult for her to endure that loss, but at least she had Maya to comfort her.  However, a loss is a loss and that must have been really painful.  I’m glad Vibhishana is in charge of Lanka now, though.  Hopefully he doesn’t become corrupted by the power and instead rules the kingdom for good although that’s against his innate nature in a way.  I’m glad that Agni testifies for Sita in terms of her faithfulness and am sad that this will not be good enough in the future (but maybe Agni could be a witness/testifier for my storybook).

Week 6: Reading Diary B

I think Sugriva has some wide words and ideas when he’s trying to convince Rama to stay strong for if he doesn’t, he won’t be able to get Sita back at all.  I wonder why the monkeys had to carry Lakshmana and Rama.  At first, I thought maybe it was to keep them from growing weary, but I thought Rama was supposed to be nearly invincible so he probably wouldn’t grow weary then.  It’s neat to see both monkeys and squirrels come together to aid Rama.  Skipping forward, I though Vibhishana didn’t want to fight her own people, but he broke the disguises of Sardula and Sarana- guess that doesn’t count which is good because that’s a very useful thing to be able to do.  I think it’s ironic that even the giant Kumbhakarna even tells Ravana to just let Sita go and avoid war with Rama.  I sort of wanted to laugh at Ravana when his cover was completely blown after he tried to convince Sita that Rama was killed.  Prahasta definitely messes up that plan for him, but I’m sure Sita is very shaken up upon realizing that Rama has arrived and is definitely going into a very dangerous situation that could cost him his life.   It’s nice that Trijata consoles Sita and tells her that Rama isn’t really dead- I wonder why she wanted to comfort Sita.  I thought she was on Ravana’s side- maybe she empathizes for Sita or maybe she thinks Ravana is being absurd and wants to save Sita any pain she can.  Or, maybe she expects Ravana to lose and wants Sita’s favor so Trijata would possibly be spared in the event that Rama was going to kill everyone in Lanka.  Regardless, poor Sita must be experiencing a roller coaster of emotions and I can’t imagine how she must be doing.  She’s probably very anxious.  Skipping forward, it’s particularly cruel that Indrajit conjures a fake Sita and kills her in front of Hanuman.  That must have been both upsetting and scarring for Hanuman to witness and also very defeating because he has worked so hard to keep her alive and now he thinks she’s dead.  I can’t imagine what that would have been like and I wonder if Hanuman’s first instinct would be to tell Rama or to not tell him in fear that he would throw Rama off and he would get killed because his grief would overtake his ability to keep himself safe in battle.

                                                     

Week 6: Reading Diary A

I love the description of Lanka island- green hills, warm white sand, aloe abundant in the lushness of the land… However, the descriptions turn to be not so pretty when describing the Rakshasas and it’s disgusting that Ravana’s wives are all strewn about all over one another sleeping on the floor- they deserve better.  Also, how can each Rakshasa daughter desire him- he has twenty heads! That would disgust me.  Also, his wives aren’t exactly treated super well so I don’t understand why anyone would want to marry him.  I also think it’s weird this whole time that Hanuman chose to disguise himself as a cat- were there lots of cats around or why would that help him blend in any more?  Jumping forward, I wonder why Ravana has drums go off in his room every morning and why there were female demons serving as guards rather than males.  I would have figured he would have made as many females as possible his wives.  I really admire how Sita keeps her composure when talking to Ravana and doesn’t falter or even entertain the things he offers.  She even calls him out a couple times and he loses his temper.  He must have looked absolutely mad and terrifying when his eyes whirred around and he had a fit.  I feel bad for Queen Mandodari because she no longer gets Ravana’s attention like she used to and this must be hard on her as well.  It makes my stomach turn to think the rakshasas wanted to eat her.  I wonder if they were just trying to scare her or if they actually wanted to.  It’s pretty weird that Hanuman refers to Sita as “mother.”  It’s sweet though that he reassures Sita and answers her questions.  He even offers to take her home at that moment.  I wonder why she says no.  Perhaps she doesn’t believe him.  When Ravana wants to cut off Hanuman’s head, I think it’s very noble that Vibhishana refuses to do so.  Not only because morally it’s wrong, but he also knows the laws and knows that’s simply not fair in the face of the law.  And, ohhh karma- Hanuman doesn’t feel the fire, but he is able to set fire to Lanka.  I admire Hanuman for also rushing back where he was just attacked- he thought she would be burned in the fire for sure, but he went on the slim chance she was alive and she was.

Week 5: Reading Diary B

Maricha is so wise- I admire how he is courageous enough to tell Ravana to not be so prideful and greedy since it can be so harmful.  Also, it's nice that he reminds Ravana that he was his wives at home who love him- he doesn't need to go after any more.  I think it's also kind that Maricha isn't too prideful and humbly uses an illustration from his own life of the power of having friends and doing right.  However, I find it ironic that Maricha is trying to persuade Ravana to do one thing (be good), and then Maricha helps Ravana in being deceitful- what's up with that?  And he does it so convincingly- he doesn’t do a so-so role-playing job- he does a very good job at luring Rama away and then imitating his voice.  When Maricha died, I was sorta sad because on one hand, I think his heart was in the right place but on another hand, he did a lot of evil as well.  However, I really like how detailed the description of the deer is- it certainly does sound enchanting and very desirable.  Quite beautiful, actually.  I can only imagine what it would have looked like.  I’ll have to try and google a picture.  Anyways, it really frustrates me that no one listens to Lakshmana- there will be another time no one listens to him and it’s hard to read because if others would just listen to each other, many problems could be avoided.   This frustration is very applicable to real life, too.  How many times are there when we don’t listen to someone for whatever reason.  There may actually be a time when hearing them out would do us a world of good.  When Ravana takes Sita, I don’t think this version of the story mentioned that he picked her up via the dirt under her.  Also, he touches her (grabs her around the waist)- does the whole consent/touching death curse not apply in this version?  Ohhhh…now I see the curse.  Also, I didn’t know Rama was supposed to be the king of the bears and monkeys and he can only have his one wife?  Good for him! I just didn’t know that.  Not sure if I skipped over it in the last book or if it’s truly a new detail that Buck put in.  Anyways, the Rishyamuka Hill seems really neat- I wonder if people would intentionally go there or how strict it’d be in terms of how much “bad” you have in you or if waking up rich is totally do-able.  

Week 5: Reading Diary A

Yeah, I’m definitely surprised that Kaikeyi thought that Bharata would be fine with her using her two wishes to put him on the throne instead of Rama and banishing him on top of that.  Bharata adores Rama and looks up to him- what does Kaikeyi think would have come of their relationship if she goes along and not only steals Rama’s crown but also his home and kingdom and has her son take his place.  I can’t imagine how Bharata would be feeling.  First of all, he must be overwhelmed with grief since his father died.  Next, he must be incredibly sorrowful since Rama is dead in a way- he probably won’t see him again.  And finally, he must be absolutely outraged with his mother for cooking up such a contraption.  However, I think it’s great that Kausalya knows Bharata is innocent and never asked for this.  She seems so well composed though which is really impressive.  It’s also nice that they came together to grieve instead of grieving independently- support systems definitely would help in situations such as these (I would imagine).  I also find it surprising that they burn bodies in this culture- I feel like most other cultures honor the body.  For example, the Egyptians put their kings’ bodies in a pyramid with all sorts of valuables…  Also, I think it’s a nice gesture that Bharata says he will only rule for fourteen years and will represent Rama by keeping his sandals by the throne, but I feel as if it’s very extreme to not rule one day past that.  Maybe Bharata is scared to rule and is caving from the pressure, but I think it’s more likely that he’s trying to make a stand.  Also, how is Rama expected to keep track of everyday up to 14 years to the exact day and remember his way back?  I feel like that’s a lot to ask/remember.  Skipping forward, poor Sita- being attacked by a big crow in the middle of the night.  I don’t get why Rama saw she was upset, smiled, and went back to sleep.  Also, I’m surprised he didn’t kill the crow. Why did the crow go after Sita in the first place? Anyways, Sita does not seem to get any breaks- she’s snatched up by a demon.  However, Tumburu is smart for taking Sita if that’s the way he is changed from a demon.  Also, I don’t get why Lakshmana had to build the house- I feel like Rama should at least help.  Lakshmana doesn’t even need to have gone with him and he did, so I feel like Rama can at least be especially nice and helpful to him.

Week 4: Reading Diary B

The day before Rama is made king, I think it’s a nice image to imagine Rama sitting there by his mom at the altar with the other queens.  She’s all dressed up and ready to go- so proud of her son.  I’m sure that must have been a sweet moment for the two of them.  As for the townspeople, it must have been such a wonderful time for them as well.  Not only was Rama such a great person to become king of them, but it was quite a celebration! I like how Rama, before he even became king, would grieve, hope, laugh, and celebrate alongside his people.  Also, it’s so fun that there was music playing, wonderful colors all over the town, and free food for all to share.  It’s also nice that all the sick people got to participate in the festivities as well!  I wonder if Rama’s dad was celebrated as highly whenever he was about to become king.  It is quite remarkable that Rama did not seem to be the least upset that he would be exiled for fourteen years- he was so obedient that he was almost emotion-less.  He was actually more concerned for his father who seemed very distraught. I’m also surprised the king lashed out (basically) on Kaikeyi’s command/wishes.  I don’t know how she doesn’t feel guilty.  It’s unfortunate she was convinced to do this.  Otherwise, I doubt she would have approached the king to use those wishes on her own.   It is so sweet and loyal for Sita to follow her husband into exile.  I don’t know if perhaps she simply doesn’t realize how hard it will be since she’s always been pampered, or if she is simply that loving.  Either way, it is a very nice gesture on her part and I also acknowledge Rama’s attitude in not wanting to put his wife through the danger by having her with him.  That was sweet of him to be prepared to be lonely as to not put his wife in danger.  It was also really neat to see that Sita treated those she left behind very well.  In fact, she ended up giving her servants full-salary until she would return.  Anyways, it’s neat to see (later on) that even people in the forest know and respect Rama (and Lakshmana).  It was very nice that Guha and his friends took in Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, and I like the fact that they take the time to engage Sita rather than merely talk to the men.  

Week 4: Reading Diary A

The way the book opens is pretty creative- I like it.  I’ve seen this format before in movies such as “The Princess Bride,” where it is a story within a story, but I haven’t seen it as much in books.  Upon describing Ayodhya, it is very enchanting.  I wonder if it really was supposedly that wonderful or if it was simply exaggerated upon description.  Since it’s a mythical place, it is definitely capable of being “perfect” since it’s not governed by the same natural rules our world is governed by.  When it mentions Sita, all I can think is “poor woman.”  After reading so much about what she went through, it is really sad to see her treated so poorly and see her want to drown both herself and her unborn son.  Rama isn’t as pure and blameless and the story leads on if he exiled her and lets this happen.  Skipping forward, Narayana is in this story?  Isn’t he the author of the last version of “Ramayana” we read?  I wonder if there is another person/supernatural with that name…  Satrughna had dark blue skin?  I feel like that’s a medical problem or maybe he’s just trying to describe with colors his personality?  Anyways, I really like the descriptions of Rama and Lakshmana- I feel as if they are described in great detail and provide a picture into the personalities of both.  In the last version of “Ramayana” we read, I felt as if we knew what Rama did/how strong he was, but I didn’t feel like I necessarily pictured him as a great person until he treated the monkeys so kindly, and then I understood why he was considered to be so great.  Anyways, I feel really bad for Trinavindu- being made pregnant by wandering onto someone’s land.  The story doesn’t mention this, but I wonder if there was a “shun” culture for those who were pregnant out of wedlock or no.  I don’t remember any uber formal marriages being mentioned for other characters besides Rama, but still I wonder.  Her dad seemed a bit shocked (as he should be), but I am not sure whether he is shocked as in disgraced or literally just completely caught off guard.  As for her son, I’m glad he’s so good-natured, but I wonder if the gift of generosity will eventually turn as a curse to him if he becomes a “push-over.”  I hate to think that way, but it seems as if other “blessings” in this book have turned out for the worst.  Anyways, when Ravana was born, is it superstition or something similar to turn left?  I find it interesting that that was the direction the dogs turned when chasing their tails.  Skipping forward, I don’t like that Buck didn’t spend as much time describing Sita and Rama’s first looks at each other and how he strung the bow to marry her.  It was mentioned so briefly that it didn’t describe how much she was infatuated by him.  With that being said, I’m surprised he essentially skipped over that part but chose to describe her in such detail when it describes her appearance on her wedding day.

Week 3: Reading Diary B

I'm glad Hanuman realized that the first woman he found was not Sita.  It was also good, in a way, for him to see Sita refuse Ravana's advances so he can testify first-hand to Rama about it if need be.  As for Sita, it's good she trust Hanuman, but if someone had my husband's ring, I would think that person killed him.  However, thank goodness Hanuman found her when he did or she may have committed suicide.  I wonder why Hanuman did not just try to take Sita back then and there.  Perhaps it was because he knew he couldn't successfully rescue her so he would rather not make it worse for anyone and instead wait for Rama and the others to try to rescue her- there would then be a much greater chance for success.  Skipping forward, when Rama listens to Hanuman about whether or not to protect, I really appreciate that Rama listens to Hanuman.  First of all, it shows that he values everyone's opinion regardless of whether or not they seem "qualified" or not.  Also, it shows that Rama is open-minded and not prejudiced.  To the others, it may make Rama look somewhat foolish for listening to a monkey but on the flip side, Rama looks at the ideas themselves, not who they are necessarily attached to.  I think if people in today's world acted more like Rama did in this instance, we would all be better off.  Also, it's definitely an added bonus that Vibishana was able to inform Rama of Ravana's troops/weapons so that they would be more prepared.  On another note, I think it's nice that Rama sent a messenger as a heads up to Ravana that he was coming and it wasn't too late to make things right, but I can't recall a myth/story from history in which that ever worked out... During the battle, I wonder why one of Ravana's women, Trijata, tried to encourage Sita in the fact that her husband wasn't dead.  Do Ravana's women despise him?  And if so, wouldn't Ravana have died because of the curse that kills him upon touching women without their consent?  Later in the battle, one of Ravana's sons reminded Ravana that he had "Brahma's gift of invincibility"- really?  I don't recall that.  However, I do recall Hanuman's brother having that or at least something similar.  I see that his heads/arms grow back, but he still gets weaker.  I think it's strange that he has the power of invincibility but is not completely invincible.  Maybe a more accurate term to describe his powers would be the power of healing.

Week 3: Reading Diary A

Jumping back into the story, I think it's a little absurd that Ravana thinks that eventually Sita will give consent and he would be able to touch her without instantly dying.  I don't think that by abducting her he has given her any reason to trust him further.  It's so ironic that Ravana claims that it's too unfair for him "to confront a mere human being," but he has no problem abducting an innocent woman against her own will.  After Ravana defeated Jatayu and he carried Sita off on his shoulder, why didn't he die?  I would assume Sita would not give consent to be carried off by Ravana...?  Skipping ahead, I wonder why Rama felt "an instinctive compassion" towards Sugreeva as soon as he laid eyes on him.  Regardless, perhaps Sugreeva mentioned his own exile as a way to console Rama and show him that he's not alone in his suffering.  After reading Sugreeva's story, I feel really bad for him.  Like Lhakshmana, he had the right idea in mind and was heavily persuaded by others to do differently and then faced negative consequences as a result.  It's nice to see how Hanuman and Sugreeva are going to help Rama- is this only because Rama is helping them as well?  I wonder why Rama's mission gets priority considering if Sugreeva leaves the mountain he will supposedly be killed right away.  Oh, never mind. Hanuman says on the next paragraph that tey will vanquish Vali first. The description of Vali as he hears the call for battle is frightening to some degree.  Is he in the form of a human or what?  He sounds massive! Oh, he's a giant monkey...duh.  During the fight when it mentions the god of death (Yama)- was he actually there/watching from afar or is this meant to be more figurative?  The last exchanges between Vali and Rama are quite moving- I sympathize for Vali in a way but also understand Rama's side of the story.  I hate that another wife (Tara) will be without a husband now.  I'm glad that by the end, Vali and Rama come to some sort of understanding.  Any death is sad, but it is better that it was made in a peaceful way at the end regardless of the initial stimulus to death.  Skipping forward, upon describing the end of the rainy season, it refers to a "rare creeper known as vanji"- what is that?  I don't know...  Then, Rama makes so many threats...would he actually destroy every monkey in the world or is he just saying that?  I certainly believe he's capable, but I also hope that he would know better than that.

Week 2: Reading Diary B

As I said before I wrote the other reading diary, I apologize if my thoughts are scattered.  I will write in my blog as I read so I may jump through the story a little bit.  For starters, I think it's sad that the king hates his wife so much for using the two wishes against his son.  I cannot blame him for being upset, but I hate to see a wedge driven into a relationship, especially that of a husband and wife.  I appreciate the fact he respected his word- that says a lot about his character.  I can't believe that the wife feels the need to exile Rama completely though- seems a bit excessive to me.  The obedience of Rama is quite commendable- he obeyed "without question."  I think it's a bit strange the wife expects the whole town to be offended if the king didn't keep his word- I bet they would see more the trickery and evil intentions by the wife misuing a wish/"boon."  I think it's sweet Sita and Lakshmana went with Rama- did Lakshmana choose to or did he have to?  Later, when Rama left Chitrakuta, I feel as if it was very sweet that he didn't want to detract from Bharatha's rule so much that he left the proximity of Ayodyha so he wouldn't be a reason people didn't listen to/respect Bharatha's rule.  Skipping forward, I think it's interesting how the sister of Ravana felt so love-sick from seeing Rama with Sita that she shut herself into a cave.  I mean, really? She's supernatural anyways- is there not a supernatural, good-looking male for her?  It's a bit crazy how supernatural beings are awestruck by the beauty of humans, and I don't understand how Ravana plans on making Sita his queen if he can't even touch her without consent.  I can't imagine he'll be able to convince her to love him and then he'll be faced with impending death.  I feel really bad for Lakshmana- the whole time he is making really good points about not following the deer and not leaving Sita and when they don't believe/listen to him.  It reminds me of somehow we, as humans, may disregard what someone has to say because the person may not seem as important, but they may make a really good point and we are too prideful or do not consider their words and may suffer as a result.  I wonder what happens to Lakshmana and hope he ends up okay in the long run.  I'm sure if Rama knew he left Sita unattended, he would be extremely upset.  I wonder why Sita felt like it was safe to let an old, creepy man into her home with all of this fishy business going on at the same time.  It's very sweet of her, but I'm not quite sure how she was not suspicious or nervous.  I can't blame her for passing out when Ravana lifted her up by carrying the soil underneath her feet, though.

Week 2: Reading Diary A- The First Part

I apologize if my thoughts are all over the place for this reading diary, but I will do my best to remain cohesive as I record my thoughts throughout the reading.  One of my first thoughts when starting this book is that it's really impressive how the sage had such "complete mastery over his bodily needs."  In today's world, whenever we want something, we can pretty much get it.  Information is instant, food is everywhere, and there's usually air conditioning close by if it's hot or a room with heating close by in the cold.  It's hard to imagine a world without the luxury of having everything at our fingertips.
Later, when Rama questioned the location of Thataka, I wonder if he asked out of fear or if he saw a challenge of finding/defeating her.  Perhaps if I read along farther I will find out...  I think it's a little crazy how he killed her so fast.  I'm surprised no one else had done it if he had done it so easily.  I also think it's interesting how Rama did not acknowledge what Viswamithra said about how Rama alone could have helped him protect the area while they performed the sacrifice.  Rama simply asked about what's to come. Jumping ahead to Ganga's story, I'm guessing that the belief system present holds to the idea that time will pass and eventually earth will end on its own without any sort of rapture or one huge natural disaster?  Later, when Ahalya turns to stone, I feel like her husband was a bit rash.  I'm glad she had a way out though.  I think it's crazy how Rama was picked/chosen for all these things and neither of his brothers had any of this "responsibility."  Why him?
For Chapter 2- "The Wedding"- how is it that there is no one in Kosala to receive charity?  Also, Sita's dad wants to suggest marriage of his daughter to Rama?  For arranged marriages, I thought it was more like the hopeful-husbands-to-be would "apply" in a way to marry the girl?  It looks like the other princes of the land tried to do so, but I wonder what about Rama made Sita's dad go so crazy for him...  Also, is a lotus flower supposed to symbolize something?  I'll have to look that up.  I want to say I've read a different epic with a lotus flower in it and it put the hero to sleep?  Another random thought- I think it's interesting they have "professional announcers."  It later says that "the couple's first meeting [was] at the conclusion of the wedding ceremonies."  Let me just say, I could not even imagine that.  I suppose couples back then honored marriage vows more regardless of whether or not they knew one another before the ceremony or not, but it would be so crazy to spend the marriage getting to know someone as opposed to getting to know someone via dating.  One of my friends may end up in a situation similar to this- her parents strongly support the culture of her home nation and are trying to get an arranged marriage for her.  Her sister already went through it and is happy with her new husband, but my friend is more like me- not really sure about the whole thing.  It's a tricky situation and for the fathers who arrange a husband for their daughters, I hope they truly get to see the kind of man the suitors are before they set up their daughters with a man for the rest of their lives.