310: Coming up: blog assignment

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Blog entry #2 due Sat. Sept.17 by noon: discuss some aspect of the Ramayana based on the readings, class discussion, thoughts and questions. (3-4 paragraphs; 10 pts.)

You can add a comment to the post I started, Ramayana and the Known Story, one of the 3? other post * and respond to that prompt, or take up another topic. You’re encouraged to comment on people’s comments, as well.

The 3? other posts: Want extra credit and the chance to shape the blog? Make a new blog post, instead (12 pts!): 1) do it by noon Thursday, Sept. 15; 2) include a fitting graphic; and develop a topic people will respond to. Let me know if you want to do this – you’ll need an “invite” to become a blog editor.

Summing up the story

1. Rama’s initiation2. The Wedding3. Two Promise Revived4. Encounters in Exile5. The Grand Tormentor6. Vali

Ramayana puppet, Thailand

Hanuman seduces the mermaid Sovanmachu

Global Asia, Chap. 4Ramayana as a “narrative of political integration”?

What are the groups?

What are the allusions to India’s history?

Rama’s encounters in the South “allow Valmiki and his readers to reflect on issues of Otherness.” – meaning what?

Ramayana depictions, Southeast AsiaPrambanan temple, Central Java, Indonesia, 9th c.

Hindu temple dedicated to Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva

Ramayana displayed in bas reliefs surrounding the central tower.

Ramayana depictions, Southeast AsiaAngkor Wat, Cambodia 12th c.Hindu “state temple” built by the king, dedicated to Vishnu

Ramayana displayed on panels in the inner complex

Ramayana depictions, Southeast AsiaBanteay Srei, Cambodia 10th c.

Priest’s temple dedicated to ShivaRamayana on panels throughout complex

Ravana shakes Heaven – “the back story”

Ramayana depictions, Southeast AsiaBanteay Srei, Cambodia 10th c.

Ramayana depictions, Southeast AsiaGrand Palace Complex, Bangkok, Thailand, 18th. c

A King’s royal complex, built by Rama I in late 1700s when the capital was moved to Bangkok.

Consider: a Hindu tale within a Buddhist society.

A similar mural is found in Phnom Penh, Cambodia,though badly damaged.

Grand Palace Complex, Bangkok, Thailand, 18th. Cpopularity of Hanuman

Ramayana as a teaching text

Ramayana Kakawin - 9th c. Central Java Book III, Cantos 52 - 86 Nahan ikana wuwus san Kekayiputra sadhuDadi sumahur ika san Ramabharasi maswiMuliha ata kitanten nka ryy Ayodhya tamolaYadin alemeha sewan padukankwiki ratwa 52. …Thus were the words of the goodhearted son of Kakeyi.Ramabhadra replied with pleading words: “Please return and stay in Ayodhya, my brother. If you are reluctant [to be king], serve my sandals. They will be the king.”

Artwork from Mithila, S. India

Bharatha venerates Rama’s sandals