The Ramayana

रामायण “The Journey of Rama”

Historical perspective• The Ramayana contains the teachings of

the very ancient Hindu sages and presents them through allegory in narrative and the interspersion of the philosophical and the devotional. The characters of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata, Hanuman, and Rāvana (the villain of the piece) are all fundamental to the cultural consciousness of India.

• One of the most important literary works on ancient India, The Ramayana has had a profound impact on art and culture in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

• The Ramayana became popular in Southeast Asia during the 8th century and was represented in literature, temple architecture, dance and theater.

Rama and Hanuman fighting Ravana

Basic PlotRama is waging battle against the 10-

headed demon Ravana for abducting Sita, Rama’s wife.

The gods send Rama assistance, and he takes to the sky.

The battle ensues, with Ravana failing to kill Rama in standard ways, and Rama cutting Ravana’s heads off, only for them to grow back.

Finally, the Brahmasthra, a special weapon, renders Rama victorious.

Themes• Rama is an epic hero! (heard of any

others?)

• Spiritual teaching about the nature of heroism, the powerful forces at work in the universe, and the results of true devotion to the gods.

• Rama is viewed as the ideal man and ruler. He is considered an incarnation of Vishnu.

• Sita is the ideal wife – Indian women are encouraged to be like her.

Literary Analysis• Conflict in an Epic

– The conflict, or struggle, in an epic is large-scale. It involves great heroes, vast armies, and the fate of nations. Supernatural elements are common: the combatants have powers beyond those of ordinary humans, and the gods themselves may intervene on either side. The battle between Rama and Ravana is a perfect example of an epic conflict.