Painting of Hanuman (c. 1700). Artist unknown. Link.
41. Sugriva and Hanuman
Why did Hanuman feel the need to disguise himself? Does he wish to test Rama's treatment of the lowliest people? Consider the conversation between Sugriva and Hanuman about this disguise.
42. Sugriva's Story
What if Sugriva is lying? Consider a story in which Sugriva really did try to kill Vali and steal his throne.
43. Vali's Death
Rama may be opportunistic in his comradeship with Sugriva. He may be using the Sugriva's help to retrieve Sita, whether or not what he does to other people is right. Given this, what sort of internal conflicts would Rama experience?
44. King Sugriva
Sugriva seems genuinely heartbroken in having killed his brother, Vali. What sort of tensions would arise as a result of this killing? Surely someone will refuse to accept this killing as justified.
47. The Armies
Sugriva needs to be threatened to follow his promise. Yet another sign that he lied about why he had filled in the hole and so trapped Vali.
49. Sampati and Jatayu
Once again, brothers experience hardship. The importance of family is made clear throughout the whole of the Ramayana.
51. Hanuman in Lanka
Sita has sacrificed many worldly comforts until she should be reunited with Rama.
54. Hanuman and Sita
Once again, Sita sacrifices (possibly) certain escape in order that Rama should rescue her. Would Hanuman and Sita have escaped if they had actually tried together? What would Rama think about this?
57. The Burning of Lanka
This seems to be one of the only instances where a protagonist or hero regrets their actions. Hanuman displays a certain rashness in his revenge. What would have happened if Sita really did die?
Sections 59-60
Hubris will likely prove the demise of Ravana and of his followers. Rather than being reasonable and giving up Sita, they seem more intent on spilling blood. Would Rama have let them go if they had simply given up Sita?
Bibliography
Various authors. Ramayana (public domain). Source.
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