The Ramayana: A Shortened Modern Prose Version of the Indian Epic

Rama’s goodness and virtue are reflected in the many decisions he makes to lead a spiritually noble life. Do his decisions reveal a belief in predestination or in free will? Support your response with evidence from the text.

Rama laments Ravana’s potential for greatness when he kills Ravana in battle. Identify and discuss three traits in Ravana that could serve the world in a positive way if he had not chosen a life of evil.

The monkey king Sugreeva demonstrates both loyalty to Rama and untrustworthiness. Why does Rama choose to trust him anyway? Support your response with evidence from the text.

Apply a feminist critique to Rama and Sita’s marriage. How does Rama’s treatment of Sita reveal gender norms of this particular time and place?

Hanuman is widely considered one of the most honorable characters in the epic. Analyze his character in detail, providing examples of his positive qualities as evidence of his reputation.

Compare the Ramayana to one other epic you know, like the Odyssey, the Iliad, or even Beowulf. What similarities do you observe, and what do these common elements reveal about heroism and culture?

Discuss the attitude of the Ramayana toward family and filial duty. Use three family relationships to support your argument.

Rama and Sita are incarnations of Vishnu and Lakshmi, respectively, but they do not know it. What benefit comes of their ignorance?