literature 1

In 1-2 well-developed and well-detailed paragraphs, discuss one of the topics listed below. After you have posted your discussion, make sure you reply to or comment on at least TWO of your classmates' posts. Each response should be detailed: a comment such as "good post" or "I don't agree" is not developed; why is it good or why don't you agree? Feel free to engage in dialogue with more students if you wish.

• Fr. C. Blucke states that “the popularity of the Valmiki Ramayana . . . is a monument to the idealism of India, its high esteem of moral values and its belief in the ultimate triumph of good over evil.” Discuss the representations of good and evil as well as the conflicts between good and evil in the text. What is significant about Rama’s eventual triumph?
• Rama and Sita are said to personify the ideals of matrimony with their constancy and love for each other. Discuss that statement with regard to Rama and Sita, and then compare/contrast their marriage/relationship to the concept of marriage today. Do you think their marriage is comparable in today’s society? Why or why not?
• Both Lakshmana’s choice to go into exile and Bharata’s refusal to accept the title of king illustrate loyalty and humility. Moreover, Hanuman's actions on the battlefield represent bravery and nobility. Discuss two of these three characters’ actions with regard to the concept of dharma. How do their actions reflect the concept of dharma and highlight the values of the Hindu religion?