Ramayana

Ramayana
      The Ramayana is one of the most well known Indian epics. This epic presents the reader with clear representations and examples of dharma. Dharma is based on morality and righteousness. It leads to a world of harmony if followed. “Hinduism describes dharma as the natural universal laws whose observance enables humans to be contented and happy, and to save himself from degradation and suffering” (Subhamoy Das). It is the steps one takes in their life to live righteously in accordance with the codes of conduct described in the Hindu scriptures. In this novel, Rama and Ravana are the main contrasting characters. Ravana is like Rama’s shadow figure. He has most of the negative, opposing qualities of those that Rama has. During the novel, we see how each of them do or do not follow their dharma. Do they both follow their dharma? Does each one fail to follow it? If they are so contrasting, should not only one be able to follow their dharma? Throughout this epic, the reader sees that Rama lives out his dharma well, while Ravana fails to live out his dharma by making the wrong choices and having the wrong attitudes.
      Rama is seen as the ideal man. He is “possessing strength, aware of obligations, truthful in an absolute way, firm in the execution of vows, compassionate, learned, attractive, self-possessed, powerful, free from anger and envy but terror-striking when roused” (Narayan xxi). These qualities that he possesses are qualities that are in accordance with a life where one follows their dharma. The reader sees Rama portray these qualities throughout the novel when he is faced with various situations and decisions.
      The reader recognizes that Rama is obedient and respectful towards the beginning of this epic. Rama is supposed to be king, but his stepmother wanted her son, Bharata, to be king. Therefore, she brings up an oath that King Dasharatha, Rama’s father, had made to her and King Dasharatha banishes Rama to the forest for fourteen...