HINDUISM WILL BECOME OUR FOCUS sas we shift to the Indian epic poem The Ramayana. Our translator is R.K. Narayan. His version is a shortened translation, one that explores the main plot points of the tale, and does not deviate from them. The epic poem tells the story of Rama, who falls in love with Sita. Rama’s mission, besides becoming reuinited with Sita, is to defeat the turned-evil Ravana, thus ridding the world of evil. This week we will cover background materials in Hinduism as a platform for understanding the text.

MONDAY

Re-reading "Prologue" on pages 3-6 together. What do we discover about this world, as it's presented to us by Valmiki (through the eyes of Narayan)? What conclusions can we draw about this universe, based upon their social constructs?
HW: Read chapter one of Ramayana tonight.

TUESDAY

Introduction to the frame narrative. Does love at first sight exist? Reviewing notes on the documentary, what Campbell might say of Indian mythology, and what we discover culturally about 16th century India through the start of this epic poem.
HW: Reading chapter two.

WEDNESDAY

Active shooter / lockdown drill. Subsequently, we will revisit chapter one, examining the frame narrative of the chapter, looking at the four experiences that Rama has, and what he should learn from them as a result.
HW: Complete the assignment from class, taking notes on the four “kingly” lessons that Rama gets from his experiences.

THURSDAY

What is the nature of love? Does true love exist? How is Rama and Sita’s love intertwined with the cosmos? And why is such a love doomed to end in separation? Class discussion, and note taking.
HW: Read chapter three for homework.

FRIDAY

Discussion of chapter three. What is the role of promises in the world of Valmiki? What is the nature of promises, and how do they factor in our lives? In class writing, personal response narrative to chapter three, followed up with a blog post (What is the nature of promises, from your experience?).
HW: Read chapter four for homework over the weekend.