Week 6 Story: Duryodhana's New Palace

During the trip back from Indraprastha, Duryodhana angrily complained to his uncle, Sakuni, about the Pandavas. "They think they are so great. Just because they have a great hall does not make them better than me!" On and on he continued to berate the Pandavas. Sakuni tried to tune him out, but became increasingly annoyed with every comment. Finally, he had heard enough. "Give it a rest, Duryodhana! You are acting like a child. The Pandavas are your cousins, you should be happy for them. They have worked hard for what they have and deserve every bit of it." This only made Duryodhana resent his cousins even more.

Once they reached Hastinapura, Duryodhana went to see his father, the king. He described the great hall of the Pandavas in vivid detail to his blind father. After listing every minutes characteristic of the hall in Indraprastha, Duryodhana whined, cried, begged and demanded to have his own great hall built. The king reluctantly agreed, but told Duryodhana that he would be in charge of the entire project, from start to finish.

Duryodhana wasted no time in getting started. He summoned all of the best builders in Hastinapura to a meeting at once. After the last builder arrived, Duryodhana started his presentation over what was going to be built. It was going to be a magnificent hall, greater than any the world had ever seen. Certainly way better than what the Pandavas had. The builder were very excited to have a part in building something so grand. The excitement soon wore off once Duryodhana informed them of their three month deadline. "That's impossible!" shouted one of the most famous builders in the city, "It will take at least two years." Duryodhana was having none of it, however, and demanded the hall be started on immediately.

At the end of three months, Duryodhana sent a messenger to invite the Pandavas to view his great hall. He could only imagine seeing the looks of jealousy on their faces when they saw how much better his hall was than theirs.

The Pandavas arrived and Duryodhana wasted no time in taking them to see his hall. They began walking toward and the Pandavas were in shock of its beauty. Duryodhana could hardly contain his excitement. As they drew near, a single bird came to rest on the top of the hall. It perched for only a moment, when suddenly, the entire building collapsed. Duryodhana stood there, stunned in disbelief, while the Pandavas burst out in laughter.

Duryodhana Speaking to Dhritarashtra

Image Author: Ramanarayanadatta astri

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Author's Note:
In the original story, Duryodhana complains to his uncle Sakuni about how great the Pandavas hall was on their trip home from a visit. Duryodhana convinces his father to build him an even better hall that would be used for a dice game between Sakuni and Yudhishthira. In my story, Duryodhana's impatience leads to corners being cut during the building phase. The hall collapses and Duryodhana is embarrassed in front of his cousins yet again.
Bibliography. The Mahabharata: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic by R. K. Narayan. Web Source.

Reading Notes: Narayan's Mahabharata Part B

Title: The Mahabharata: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic Part B
Author: R. K. Narayan
Year: 1978

- Duryodhana hears his father, Dhritarashtra's happiness and enthusiasm when he learns that the Pandavas have won Drupada's daughter. After his son confronts him, Dhritarashtra reveals that it was only a show for Vidura. He could have had a long talk with his son about the family, bringing them closer together instead of pushing them all further apart.

- After visiting the Pandavas in Indraprastha, Duryodhana became to complain about their prosperity to his uncle Sakuni who then advised his nephew to leave the Pandavas alone and to be happy for them, especially since they were much stronger than the Kauravas. - While telling of how the Pandavas laugh at him, Duryodhana sounds like a very disturbed man. This scene could be rewritten as Duryodhana lying on his therapist's couch during a counseling session.

- The same scene could also be rewritten as children at a daycare. The Pandavas could be playing with toys, while their spoiled cousin, Duryodhana pouts and cries because he isn't getting his way. Eventually, Duryodhana would be talked to about his actions, or punished for them, depending on where the story goes.

- Dhritarashtra is very easily persuaded throughout the story. He was highly regarded at the beginning of the story. I do not like the development for his character.

- Dhritarashtra had his marvelous hall built extremely fast. Great things cannot be rushed. When they are, corners are generally cut and shoddy work is done. Perhaps the entire hall could collapse before the dice game between the Pandavas and Duryodhana. Maybe as they are walking to it, a bird will rest on the top, leading to the building's destruction and once again embarrassing Duryodhana in front of his cousins once again.

- Sakuni takes everything from Yudhistira in the dice game. Yudhistira, who is supposed to be very wise, became oblivious to everything around him, except for his unforgiving dice. Perhaps one of his brothers should have advised him to stop before it got out of hand. Perhaps he should have realized it on his own. It reminds me of a person with a gambling problem who can't seem to walk away from the blackjack/poker table/slot machines at a casino until he has nothing left to play with.

- I like the quote "Griefs and fears by the thousands afflict all men night and day, but affect only the ignorant."


- The conversation between Draupadi and Yudhistira has been the best part of the book. Both make great points as to how someone should live and act. 

Sakuni Defeats Yudhistira in the Dice Game

Image Author: Ramanarayanadatta astri

Image Source:Wikimedia Commons

Reading Notes: Narayan's Mahabharata Part A

Title: The Mahabharata: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic Part A
Author: R. K. Narayan
Year: 1978

- Dhritarashtra treated all of his sons and his brother's (Pandu) sons equally after Pandu's self inflicted death.

- Drona instructs his pupils to attack Panchala and capture Drupada as his payment for being their tutor. Drupada was his friend when they were younger. Drupada became king when he grew older and treated Drona poorly when he saw him next. Drupada is captured and Drona takes half of his kingdom to rule so that he and Drupada would always be equals, allowing them to be friends.

- Dhritarashtra is a bit jealous during the ceremony when his narrator is only telling of the great things his nephews are doing, with little mention of his own sons. He then names Yudhistira as his heir apparent instead of one of his sons.

- Dhritarasthra, his adviser, and Duryodhana devise a plan to get Pandu's sons out of the capital. They have become jealous. Dhritarasthra could have just had a talk with all of his sons and nephews in order to keep the peace. 

- The charred remains of a mother and five sons were found inside the burnt mansion. This story could use more detail.

- Dhritarasthra did not expect the plan to go so far and was at the mercy of his conscious. Perhaps he had helped Vidura get the Pandava's to safety, knowing the evil plot of Duryodhana and Purichana.

Pandavas

Image Author: Jijithnr

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 5 Story: Rama Battles the Ocean

After three days of praying to the Ocean Lord, Rama was woken by his anger. The only thing that stood between him and Sita was this wretched ocean...and Ravana, his army, and all that. But for now, the focus was on getting across this ocean!

Rama approached the coast and shouted at the water, "Let my army pass or feel my arrow!"  At this moment, Lakshamana, Hanuman, and Sugriva rushed to Rama and begged him to relent. "Dear brother," Lakshmana said, "even you, as mighty as you are, cannot defeat the ocean. It is vast and endless, your arrows will do it no damage." Hanuman and Sugriva reiterated what Lakshmana had said.

Rama paid them no mind and began shooting his arrows at the sea. Suddenly, large serpents rose from the water. Rama struck them down as soon as they appeared. All of the ocean god's minions came to the surface from the deepest, darkest depths . Vile, massive creatures who have never seen the light of day started making their way to the shore. Rama struck them down immediately. Hanuman was speechless. Lakshmana immediately began to pray. Sugriva casually backed himself away from the water and surrounded himself with his warriors.

As Rama slaughtered the last of the sea monsters, something else began to emerge from the water. Rama, in no mood for questioning, started firing arrows at the unknown object. Instantly, Rama regretted his actions. He had just killed the Ocean Lord!

Upon his death, all the oceans in the world began to run dry. While this is kind of a big deal, it did make it a lot easier to get to Sita. After thinking about it for a minute, Rama shot an arrow at a cloud in the sky. The cloud burst open and it started to rain. While Rama and his army rescued Sita, it continued to rain. When Rama reclaimed his throne in Ayodhya, it was still raining. That single cloud over the ocean produced rain for many years until the ocean was finally replenished.

Rama and the Ocean Lord

Image Author: Raja Ravi Varma

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Author's Note:

In the original story, Rama, angry with the ocean, shot arrows into the sea, causing serpents to appear and a meteors shower before the Ocean Lord tells Rama how to cross. In my story, Rama, blinded by his anger, accidentally kills the Ocean Lord and dries up the ocean. He replenishes the ocean by shooting a cloud above, causing it to rain for years.

Bibliography. Rama and the Monkeys by Geraldine Hodgson, translated by W. H. Robinson. Web Source.

Reading Notes: Rama and the Monkeys Part B

Title: Rama and the Monkeys
Author: Geraldine Hodgson
Translator: W. H. Robinson
Year: 1903

- Ravana has his council and everything turns out the same. I rewrote this story last time, but there are still things that could be done differently. Everyone could be against Ravana's decision to hold Sita captive. Vinhishana could actually be a spy when he goes to meet with Rama, or he could not be, but be tried and/or executed as one. 

- Ravana sends Suka to Rama's camp and he is captured by Sugriva's men. He was ordered to be let go by Rama twice, and was, but not until he had been bruised up. The monkeys could have killed the messenger/spy, causing dissent among the army. 

- Rama sleeps for three days and prays to the Ocean Lord to let his people cross. Nothing happens, so he shoots his arrows into the ocean causing serpents to appear. Then earthquakes and meteors before the Ocean Lord tells him how to cross. A lot could happen with this part. The serpents and Ocean Lord could be angry with Rama for shooting his arrows, and take sides with Ravana. Or the ocean could simply prevent him from crossing, so he has to find a different way to get to Sita. 

- Ravana could see the Monkeys from where he was, so he knew they were building a bridge. He could attack them when they complete it, or almost complete it, changing where the battle takes place.

- Rama and Lakshmana were both weary and coiled by serpents. Hanuman ran to a mountain and got a special herb to revive them. Hanuman could have been too busy fighting one of the Evil Beings and someone else could have saved the brothers...or maybe no one.

Building a Bridge to Lanka

Image Author: Ramachandra Madhwa Mahishi

Image Source: Kamat

Geography: 

Part A

Godavari - Stream

Pampa - Lake

Malaya - Hills

Part B

Suvela - Mountain

Chandra - Mountain

Drona - Mountain 

Reading Notes: Rama and the Monkeys Part A

Title: Rama and the Monkeys
Author: Geraldine Hodgson
Translator: W. H. Robinson
Year: 1903

- Dasaratha is able to defeat his enemies by overcoming everything bad within himself.

- Ayodhya has no poverty or dirt, everyone tells the truth, no envy...it's the perfect city.

- Ravana is protected from everything except mortal men.

- No Lakshmana, monkeys instead. The monkeys can change shape and go anywhere they want. They had great strength and could fly.

- Lakshmana does exist in this story, but he is not of a god. Everything else seems to be the same so far, with the exception of the monkeys. 

- Kaikeyi is convinced by her maid to force Dasaratha to make Bharata king, this time because Kaikeyi used to insult Kausalya, not because Rama used to insult the maid who has a humpback in both versions of the story. 

- In the forest, Rama and Lakshmana defeat an Evil Being named Viradha who had indestructible life. They broke both of his arms and threw him in a pit. 

- Surpanakha was never beautiful, she was a "hideous old hag" with intentions of killing Sita. Lakshmana still chops off her nose and ears.

- Sugriva and Vali fight while Rama hides and kills Vali with an arrow. I enjoyed the way this story was told in R.K. Narayan's version, but it isn't quite as in depth in this version. I might rewrite this scene. 

- Lakshmana goes to Kishkinda due to Sugriva not keeping his word (meeting with Rama at the end of the rainy season). This story could also turn out much differently.

- Hanuman burns down Lanka when his tail is set on fire and fears that he burns Sita in his rage. He doesn't, but this part of the epic could also be rewritten. 

Rama and Lakshmana meet Hanuman

Image Author: Unknown

Image Source: British Museum

Geography:

Godavari - Stream

Pampa - Lake

Malaya - Hills

Comment Wall

GEOG 4993, my project website, is now up and running!

Week 4 Story: Vibhishana's Advice

Following the meeting with his brothers and army commanders, Ravana was left with a lot to think about. Gather the forces and attack now or sit back and destroy them when they get near? They are only mere humans and Ravana is, well, Ravana. Maybe he should just forget about them entirely so he can focus all of his efforts on Sita.

As Ravana contemplated this, another thought slowly crept into his mind. Although he completely dismissed what his brother, Vibhishana, had said, he couldn't forget it. And it began to eat at him constantly. Why would his own brother say that? Is he scared of Rama? Does he think Rama is more powerful than Ravana? He did see Ravana shake Mount Kailas and bring the gods to their knees after all. He certainly knows Ravana's power. What else could it be?

Ravana thought back to what his uncle, Mareecha, had said. He too, advised Ravana to stay away from Rama and to change his wicked ways. For a second, Ravana actually missed his uncle and felt remorse for sending him to his end. He quickly shook that thought once he remembered why. But even the thought of Sita couldn't take his mind away from the meeting. Even his commander-in-chief had questioned Ravana's decision to capture Rama's wife while Rama was away, although his solution was to find and finish Rama and his army.

The day turned to night and Ravana had a decision to make. If he was going to attack Rama, preparation would have to start immediately. Even if they were just going to wait until Rama made his way to Lanka, a plan would still need to be made as soon as possible. He decided to sleep on it and would let his advisers know the course of action the following morning.

Ravana was restless as he tried to sleep. He had a lot on his mind and he was very unsure of what to do, a new experience for him. Before falling asleep, he sent many prayers to Shiva for guidance. He finally fell asleep and began to dream a terrible dream. His city was crumbling and he had no answer for Rama or his army. Rama eventually ended his life. After his death, he came before Vishnu. Vishnu then begins reading a list of all the atrocities Ravana had committed over his time. This dream troubled Ravana greatly.

Ravana's Nightmare

Image Author: Sahib Din

Image Source: British Library

The next morning, Ravana called another meeting with his advisers and brothers. He ordered the immediate release of Sita and called for a messenger to request a meeting with Rama. His brothers and advisers were baffled, but none dare question his orders. His youngest brother, Vibhishana, was smiling on the inside.

Author's Note
In the original story, Ravana holds a council with his brothers and advisers, asking how a monkey was able to burn the city down. The conversation turns to whether they should attack Rama's army, wait for them to approach, or not worry about them at all. Ravana's youngest brother, Vibhishana suggests that there are many signs pointing to Ravana's impending doom and he should release Sita and change his ways. Ravana laughs him off and eventually banishes Vibhishana, who eventually joins Rama's side.
In my story, Ravana actually heeds Vibhishana's advice after having a nightmare where there is another bad sign, Vishnu being his judge.

Bibliography. The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic by Kamban / R. K. Narayan. Web Source: p. 135. Ravana's Council.

Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayana Section D

Title: The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic
Author: Kamban / R. K. Narayan
Year: 1972


- Hanuman observes Ravana's wife Mandodari, thinking it is Sita. He gets very upset because he thinks Sita has succumbed to Ravana and is enjoying her new life while Rama is miserable. This could be Sita, or Mandodari could help Hanuman/Rama rescue Sita because she wants the attention of Ravana back. Or she could try to trick/trap Rama in order to get back in Ravana's good graces.

- Hanuman allowed himself to be captured by Ravana's army, had is tail set on fire, escaped from his captivity, and set the entire city on fire. It seems that he did almost everything except rescue Sita....

- Ravana has a meeting with his brothers and army chiefs. He asks them how the monkey was able to burn down their city, why he wasn't captured, and how they will deal with Rama/monkeys/etc.
He gets a variety of feedback, some saying to go find the monkeys and Rama and defeat them, some saying to let them come to Lanka and defeat them there. His younger brother, Vibishana, advises him to release Sita and change his ways before his meets his end. Ravana eventually banishes him....Vibishana seeks asylum with Rama and is eventually granted it.
So much can be done here...I can go many opposite ways with Ravana, such as him listening to Vibishana, making peace with Rama. Rama and his army could have Vibishana killed for "being a spy." Vibishana could actually be a spy, leading to Rama's defeat, or near defeat.

- Rama couldn't figure out how to cross the sea at first, but eventually was able to get a passage built. Hanuman could have easily made himself massive, as he did the first time, and carried the army across. 

- Rama and Lakshmana laid on the battlefield after being shot with poison arrows. They could have easily been captured or killed during this time. 

- Rama made every effort to save Ravana by allowing him to change his mind, which he never did. He could have shown the same mercy for everyone else that he killed mercilessly. 

- After Rama killed Ravana, all of the evil qualities that had plagued Ravana had melted away and showed him in pristine form. This can be incorporated into my story, but probably without Ravana dying. 

Rama and Ravana do Battle

Image Author: Unknown

Image Source: The Hindu

Geography:

Section A

- Kosala (country)

- Ayodhya (capital of Kosala)

- Anga

- Sidhasrama

- Mithila City

- Sarayu River

- Ganges River

- Himalayas

- Mount Saila

- Amravati (fabulous city was Indra's or Alkapuri of Kubera?)

Section B

- Kekaya (where Aswapathi's palace is - 8 days ride from Ayodhya)

- Chitrakuta

- Nandigram (small village on the outskirts of Ayodhya) 

- Panchvati

- Lanka 

- Dandaka Forest 

- Godavari River

- Mount Kailas

- Meru Mountain

Section C

Mountainous forest region of Kiskinda

Vidarbha

Charuvala (mountain)

Mount Matanga

Vindhya (mountain peaks)

Hemakuta Mountains

Thiruvengadam (holiest mountain)

Mahendra (mountain)

Narmanda River

Section D

Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayana Section C

Title: The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic
Author: Kamban / R. K. Narayan
Year: 1972

- Lakshmana is faced with a dilemma - does he go look for Rama, who he knows is ok, or does he stay with Sita even though she is threatening to kill herself? Ultimately he decided to go look for Rama, leaving Sita in the hands of Dharma (and captured by Ravana), but I might prefer him to stay.

- While Ravana is talking to Sita, he says the Rakshasa clan has been misrepresented; that they are kind and enlightened....maybe they could be.

- Ravana has an ancient curse upon him - he cannot touch a woman without her consent or he will die. A lot can be done with this. Something else that could be done, is that Ravana could defeat, although not kill Rama, with Rama or Lakshmana  (or someone else) convincing Sita to become Ravana's queen in order to save the world as he will do whatever she commands. 

- Vali, Sugreeva, and Rama: There is a lot to this story that could be changed; Rama could simply talk to Vali which could result in Sugreeva and Vali putting aside their differences, or it could lead to a fight between Rama and Vali where Lakshmana has to save Rama, or many other possibilities. With that said, the story is very controversial as both sides, Vali and Rama, make good points as to what they did and why they did it. I like this story the way it is and do not want to change it.

- I like that there is a connection to the way Rama treated Kooni when he was younger and what happened earlier in the story.

- Hanuman, Angada, and their army go through a tunnel to the middle of the earth and find a goddess who was banished there until that moment. They feasted and the woman returned to her heaven while the army went back to their task. This woman could have been Soorpanaka.

Rama Kills Vali (c. 1720)

Image Author: Unknown

Source: Philadelphia Museum of Art

Geography:

Section A

- Kosala (country)

- Ayodhya (capital of Kosala)

- Anga

- Sidhasrama

- Mithila City

- Sarayu River

- Ganges River

- Himalayas

- Mount Saila

- Amravati (fabulous city was Indra's or Alkapuri of Kubera?)

Section B

- Kekaya (where Aswapathi's palace is - 8 days ride from Ayodhya)

- Chitrakuta

- Nandigram (small village on the outskirts of Ayodhya) 

- Panchvati

- Lanka 

- Dandaka Forest 

- Godavari River

- Mount Kailas

- Meru Mountain

Section C

Mountainous forest region of Kiskinda

Vidarbha

Charuvala (mountain)

Mount Matanga

Vindhya (mountain peaks)

Hemakuta Mountains

Thiruvengadam (holiest mountain)

Mahendra (mountain)

Narmanda River

Feedback Strategies

The first article that I read is Be a Mirror: Give Readers Feedback That Fosters a Growth Mindset by Gravity Goldberg. Early in the article, Gravity talks about how children can sometimes develop a fixed mindset where they believe some of their abilities (reading was the focus of this article) are static and unable to improve. Later in the article, she brings up five qualities to help promote a growth mindset over a fixed mindset. The third quality she mentions is to focus on the process of learning and the work that the student is putting in throughout that process. I completely agree with the idea of giving positive feedback for effort and progress, especially with younger children. I think I have said this before, but I believe there are many things that can be overcome by simply working hard. If a student believes that nothing will change no matter how hard they work, then they will probably be less likely to work hard. Showing and praising the progress that they have made can prove to them that the work they are putting in makes a difference.

Another quality that Gravity talks about is making sure the feedback can transfer. “'When you thought about why Jonas lied to his dad, it helped you understand why he left,” I might say, “When you thought about the character’s choices, it helped you understand his motivation.'” This is extremely valuable advice in my opinion. Making the feedback too specific can lead to a student understanding that exact situation, but they may have trouble transferring it to other situations. Making the feedback more general can help a student learn an overall lesson instead of situation-specific lesson.

The second article that I read was The Difference Between Praise and Feedback by Mindshift. This article explains some of the issues associated with the language we use when dealing with children. It highlights the idea of "process praise," which I hit on in the previous article, but it also hits on asking questions as a way to give feedback instead of just giving compliments, which I agree with. This not only shows the child that you care about how they feel, but it also makes them think and analyze.

When it comes to feedback, I think it is important to not only tell someone what they need to work on, as well as giving them ideas on how to do that, but also to tell them what they are doing right. People need to know what they are doing right so that they can build on their strengths and apply those strengths when appropriate. I don't think every single thing should be praised, as some things are expected to be done and done well, but I don't see it as a bad thing to tell someone when they've done something exceptional.

Definition of Feedback

Image Author: Nick Youngson

Image Source: The Blue Diamond Gallery

Topic Research: The Geography of Ramayana

I have decided to go with The Geography of the Ramayana for my final project.

My first idea is to have the setting be a classroom. A teacher will assign a specific location to each student, who will then give a presentation about the geography of that location and also what happened there in the Ramayana. The teacher would then highlight the best three or four presentations, which would make up my project. I am not sure if I would only want to use real places, or if I would also want to include fictional places.


My second idea is to do a travel itinerary similar to this (for some reason, the text appears to be the same color as the background, so if it isn't showing up for you, you basically have to highlight the whole page the read it. If I decide to use this idea, this feature will not be included.) For this story, I would probably use the itinerary as an advertisement, highlighting three or four places of the Ramayana, what happened there in the story, and how it looks today. I might also try to incorporate how the Ramayana has affected that location due to things like tourism if possible (I could/probably would also use this for my first idea)

My third idea is to have a first person story of someone actually going on the tour. They would then review the places that they have visited, giving a back story of what it was like during the Ramayana, as well as how it looks now, and then posting it to their famous "travel blog."

Geographical, Historical, and Statistical Map of India

Image Author: Matthew Carey 

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons

Week 3 Story: Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita

After shooting an arrow through the throat of Thataka, ending her reign, and disposing of her sons, killing one and sending the other out to sea, the trio made their way to the city of Mithila. Mithila is home to King Janaka, a close ally to the kingdom of Kosala. Viswamitra has come to let King Janaka know about the removal of the demon who has been affecting the cities trade routes.

Upon entering the city, Rama brushes by a slab of stone, which turns into a woman. Vishwamitra then explains the story of Ahalya.

As the three made their way to King Janaka's castle, the princes noticed a young woman in one of the castle towers. At the same time, she noticed them as well. Although they did not know it, the woman they were starring at was King Janaka's daughter, Sita. Sita was regarded as the most beautiful woman in all the land.

Rama and Laskshmana made their way to their guest chambers while Vishwamitra went to speak with King Janaka. The recent events had begun to take their toll on the boys as they started to talk about the beautiful woman they had seen. Lakshmana seemed especially stricken by her beauty, and Rama noticed.

Sita had also fallen ill by the sight of Dasaratha's sons. Not only was she sure that she would never see them again, but she also fought with herself over which she wanted to see more if given the chance. This internal dilemma had noticeable effects on her mood and actions, causing her maids to work overtime in an effort to comfort her.

After Vishwamitra's had explained to King Janaka that the issues with his trade routes had been resolved, King Janaka presented Vishwamitra with another problem. Due to Sita's exorbitant beauty, she held many, many suitors. Fearing that he would choose the wrong one, King Janaka issued a challenge to all who pursued Sita as a wife. The first to complete the challenge would be given Sita's hand in marriage. In King Janaka's possession was the great bow of Shiva. After Shiva retired the bow, he had given it to King Janaka as a present. The bow was so large and heavy that it could not be carried by a man and had to be transported by a large wagon. The challenge was to snap the bow. To this point, no one had come close to breaking the bow, and King Janaka was afraid that no one ever would, depriving his daughter the right to get married.

Rama loosens the bow for Lakshmana

Image Author: Balasaheb Pandit Pant Pratinidhi

Image Source: Tamil and Vedas

Upon hearing this, Vishwamitra suggested that Rama should have a try at the bow, and King Janaka had the bow wheeled into the area. As Rama begins to pull on the bow, he starts to feel it weaken. He knows that he can easily snap the bow, and at this point, he knows that doing so would mean taking the woman that he saw in the tower as a wife. He also knows that this could destroy his brother, Lakshmana. As the bow is about to snap, he relents. The bow stands in tact, and King Janaka is sure that his daughter will never marry. Rama then suggests that Lakshmana be given a chance, to which King Janaka obliges, although he holds no hope that Lakshmana will be successful.

Lakshmana approaches the bow and begins to pull with all his might. Slowly, the bow starts to splinter at its middle, and eventually, a loud SNAP is heard all throughout the city. Sita, knowing what the sound meant, runs downstairs to meet her soon-to-be husband. She is overcome with joy when she realizes that it is one of the men she saw earlier that day.

Within hours, messengers were sent to Ayodhya to inform Dasaratha. While many were confused that Lakshmana was able to break the bow, but Rama couldn't, it was quickly forgotten and wedding preparations were soon made.

Author's Note
In the original story, Rama and Sita notice each other as Rama, Lakshmana, and Vishwamitra are walking into the city. Both Rama and Sita are love striken, although Sita is affected much more than Rama. King Janaka's challenge to Sita's suitors is to string Shiva's bow, which Rama does successfully, and the two are married.
In my story, Lakshmana notices Sita and Sita notices both princes. The challenge is to break the bow, which although Rama can do, he chooses not to so that Lakshmana can. Lakshmana and Sita are married. I did this because in every story so far, Lakshmana has been very loyal to Rama, but never really given any glory. In my story, Rama is loyal to Lakshmana and allows him to finally have his day in the sun.
Bibliography. The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic by Kamban / R. K. Narayan. Web Source: p. 23. Sita

Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayana, Section B

Title: The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic
Author: Kamban / R. K. Narayan
Year: 1972

- Lakshmana becomes extremely upset when he finds out that Rama will not be crowned. He challenges everyone. Rama tries to calm him saying that what happened is because of fate. Lakshmana says he will change fate himself.

- Lakshmana and Sita accompany Rama to the forest. What about Lakshmana's wife?

- Dasaratha dies hearing that Rama had crossed the river. Everyone feels extreme hatred toward Kaikeyi, even her son. What did she have to gain by doing this?

- The gods command Bharatha to rule the kingdom for 14 years, afraid that Rama might not fulfill the purpose of his reincarnation. Maybe it wasn't a demon that possessed Kaikeyi to act this way, but the gods.

- In the wilderness, it is said that Rama doesn't lose sight of his purpose: to destroy the asuras in the area and defeat Ravana, their chief. How does he find this out and does he know that he is the avatar of Vishnu?

- Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita run into Soorpanaka in the forest, resulting in Lakshmana lopping off her nose, ears, and breasts. Even after explaining who he was and his purpose, she did not relent to be with him, or even with Lakshmana. She claimed to be able to help them destroy the asura class. They rejected and sent her away. This situation could go many different ways. They could accept her, with Rama taking her as another wife, or Lakshmana could take her as a wife since his did not join them in the forest. They could also just bring her along and help rid her of her curse (in this instance, she would have become a rakshasis due to a curse). Or they could accept her in any of the ways mentioned, making them vulnerable to Ravana. Lakshmana could accept her and her offer of ruling over worlds. Many possibilities.

Lakshmana Cuts Off Soorpanaka's Nose

Image credited to Indi Samarajiva

Image Source: Flickr

Geography:

Section A

- Kosala (country)

- Ayodhya (capital of Kosala)

- Anga

- Sidhasrama

- Mithila City

- Sarayu River

- Ganges River

- Himalayas

- Mount Saila

- Amravati (fabulous city was Indra's or Alkapuri of Kubera?)

Section B

- Kekaya (where Aswapathi's palace is - 8 days ride from Ayodhya)

- Chitrakuta

- Nandigram (small village on the outskirts of Ayodhya) 

- Panchvati

- Lanka 

- Dandaka Forest 

- Godavari River

- Mount Kailas

- Meru Mountain

Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayana, Section A

Title: The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic
Author: Kamban / R. K. Narayan
Year: 1972

- Viswamithra is very direct and to the point in his meeting with Dasaratha. He does not negotiate. He makes a request and when he believes it to be denied, he intends to leave. I am unsure if this is used as a tactic to not only get what he wants (Rama to journey with him), but also to show the urgency of the issue, or if it is simply a reflection of his personality. He is clearly highly regarded and appears to know this, although he doesn't like mention of his past.

- Vasishtha is Dasaratha's right hand man. He had the vision that brought Dasaratha's children (although he doesn't tell him the vision) and knows how to deal with Viswamithra when the king is unable to think. He also talks Dasaratha into letting Rama go on the journey. 

- Viswamithra is able to read minds and transmit information to others mentally.  

- In dealing with Thataka, her sons, and other asuras, Rama has dealt with little to no adversity. He and Lakshmana are very good with the bow and it appears to be their weapon of choice. 

- Viswamithra explains the story of every place they visit. Reason: "We attain a full understanding only when we are aware of the divine and other associations of every piece of ground we tread on."

- Rama turns Ahalya back into a beautiful woman. Through the events that happen and the stories that Viswamithra tells him, he is learning of his purpose. 

- Rama's first bout with adversity comes after laying eyes upon Sita. The irony is not lost on him. 

- Rama is able to snap the bow, resulting in the marriage between him and Sita. This could make for a good twist. Perhaps Rama is in love with Ahalya, or maybe the woman that he saw in the window was someone other than Sita....maybe the man that Sita saw wasn't Rama, maybe it was Lakshmana.

- Kooni had persuaded Kaikeyi to change her feelings about Rama, leading to his banishment. Perhaps Kooni, or even Kaikeyi was/can be tranced by a sage or demon as this seemed to be out of character for both of them...or at least Kaikeyi. There isn't much said about Kooni to this point.

King Dasaratha Travels to Rama's Wedding (1680)

Image Author: Jammu Punjab

Image Source: Sampradaya Sun

I will also be using my reading notes to keep up with the geography of the epic.

Geography:

- Kosala (country)

- Ayodhya (capital of Kosala)

- Anga

- Sidhasrama

- Mithila City

- Sarayu River

- Ganges River

- Himalayas

- Mount Saila

- Amravati (fabulous city was Indra's or Alkapuri of Kubera?)

Week 2 Review: Spread of Religion

I try to look at the announcements every day, but sometimes I just end up skimming that latter half of the page. I actually did that for today's announcements, but this extra credit gave me a very good reason to look through a little more thoroughly, and I'm glad I did. 

Today's announcement blog featured a very interesting video about the spread of religion through the world. I had no idea that Hinduism was the world's first major religion. It was very interesting the see how quickly Islam spread after Muhammad was born. Also interesting was the impact colonization had on the spread of Christianity, although that is a little more well known. 

Animated map shows how religion spread around the world

Video at Youtube

This video reminds me of a video that Dr. Houser showed my Foundation and Mentoring in Social Studies class last semester. It's a bit long, but also very interesting. 

Human Population Through Time

Video at Youtube

Feedback Thoughts

The first article I read was 14 Signs Your Perfectionism Has Gotten Out Of Control by Carolyn Gregoire. Carolyn's article identifies 14 signs about perfectionism that affect the feelings, work ethic, and entire life of a perfectionist.

After reading the article, I found that many of the sign have or do apply to me. There were a few signs that, although I found very surprising to be on the list, actually make quite a bit of sense. Procrastinating is the first sign that comes to mind. I have been a chronic procrastinator throughout my life, especially when it comes to big projects and papers. A lot of it comes from simply not having the perfect topic or the perfect thesis and not being happy with whatever work I had already done for it. This would lead to me putting it off until I had no choice but to complete it, satisfied or not. Something that I have found that tends to help with this is just getting words down. For someone that wants every sentence to be perfect, it can be challenging to do this, but it helps a lot with procrastination and gets me to do a much more thorough revision of my work.

Carolyn did claim to have simple solutions to start letting go, but her only real suggestion was to "be authentic" and let yourself be seen for who you are. Unfortunately, I would imagine that for most perfectionists, especially those who are my age, this is who they are, so that advice doesn't help too much. To her credit, she does link to another article that goes more in-depth explaining how to be "more authentic."

The second article I read was 5 Tips For Taking Feed Back Like A Champ by Megan Bruneau. This was a good article emphasizing that the feeling to negative feedback are natural, but it's the reactions to the feedback that needs to be kept in check. No one enjoys hearing that they have made a mistake somewhere or that their work wasn't quite good enough, but it's essential for personal growth.

Megan made a number of points that stood out to me. The first is to realize that having something to work on means you haven't maxed out your potential. This can be comforting if taken in a positive manner. She also makes the point of "state" vs "trait"  where we will receive negative feedback about a certain instance and then turn that into a negative trait about ourselves. Understanding that these are not the same things could alleviate a lot of self-doubt and possibly make it easier to grow in that area.

When I was learning to be an instructor in the Marine Corps, I was required to teach the same class to my peers two to three times a day. They would give me feedback on the things that I was doing right, what I was doing wrong, and how I could get better. Naturally, the first few days were very heavy on things I was doing wrong and how I could do it better. It was pretty brutal at first, but the more I practiced and the more I applied the feedback given to me, the less negative feedback I received. Without that experience, as unpleasant as it was, I would not have accomplished something that I really wanted to do.

Feedback: The Perfect Gift

Image Author: Senior Master Sgt. Mary-Dale Amison

Image Source: Air National Guard