Reading Notes: Ramayana Part B

Public Domain Ramayana, link to the reading online.
Once again, notes as they occur:

I think it is very interesting how unquestioning even Bharata follows Rama. In any western story the brother would leap at the opportunity that he doesn't even need to feel guilty over.


Dasharatha really screwed himself over with this whole thing, even Bharata doesn't get it.

Jabali's speech about family loyalty is interesting  and so is Rama's response and no doubt has been used as a guide by many in the Indian culture.

I wonder if the story of Viradha had any real life inspiration such as a bear near a village or something. That's always something that I keep in the back of my mind.

I find it interesting that besides for Shurpanakha actually being ugly, she also takes a beautiful form. this seems to be the first time that outward beauty might not be a sign of the inner personality.

"The rocks answered back her awesome cries" may be the best way of describing an echo I've ever heard.

Of course Rama must fight the demon army alone. I suppose it was nice to not have to worry about his wife though.

I appreciate that Lakshmata is a bit cocky in battle, kinda like modern action characters.

Image source: Ravana and Maricha.

The art of Ravana is very... interesting

So Sita falls for the trick so easily. But I guess that's alright since it's all part of a very convoluted plot by Brahma.

I feel bad from the vulture character. He saw the right thing to do and he did it, but he died as a result. I feel like the whole "trap" scenario is a bit.... convoluted and given how powerful Rama has been shown to be it seems kinda sudden that he failed to protect Sita.