Reading Notes: Narayan's Ramayan Section B
The conversation between Rama and Kamavalli was a large portion of the Part B reading. However, it was just like every other story in this book so far: short but immensely informational. There were complex characters, various settings, and intense conversations. From this very short but detailed chapter, it seems as though there are several plots that can be used for recreation. There were many themes that could be used but only one seemed common among all: emotions.
Kamavalli seemed unable to control her emotions when dealing with Rama. As a rakshasas, she was aggressive, rude, outspoken, and felt entitled due to her brother's name. However, little did she know that Rama was not simply Rama, but Vishnu in disguise. There were four different characters in this chapter, yet only one plot. The plot was complex, however, so the story can easily be told from any one of their perspectives. Yet, the story of Ravana and his siblings is unknown to many in this course, so the story can be told in terms of Kamavalli's perspective and bring her background into the story.
This portion of the story is as informative as any other in the Ramayana. It teaches one to control their emotions (not just to prevent getting one's nose cut off), but it also demonstrates an interesting point of how this story still enforces the caste system amongst one another. It was quite disappointing to catch that within the story.
Bibliography:
Chapter 4: Encounters in Exile by R. K. Narayan. Book source.
Kamavalli seemed unable to control her emotions when dealing with Rama. As a rakshasas, she was aggressive, rude, outspoken, and felt entitled due to her brother's name. However, little did she know that Rama was not simply Rama, but Vishnu in disguise. There were four different characters in this chapter, yet only one plot. The plot was complex, however, so the story can easily be told from any one of their perspectives. Yet, the story of Ravana and his siblings is unknown to many in this course, so the story can be told in terms of Kamavalli's perspective and bring her background into the story.
This portion of the story is as informative as any other in the Ramayana. It teaches one to control their emotions (not just to prevent getting one's nose cut off), but it also demonstrates an interesting point of how this story still enforces the caste system amongst one another. It was quite disappointing to catch that within the story.
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| Lakshmana cutting off Kamavalli's nose. Source: Wikimedia |
Chapter 4: Encounters in Exile by R. K. Narayan. Book source.
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