"Rama meets Bharata."
Illustration by Raji Ravi Varma. Link.
61. The Bridge
Like the beginning of the epic, the gods are bound to rules greater than themselves. What other rules could prevent them from helping Rama?
62. Rama Attacks
Ravana has too much pride. His overconfidence will lead to his demise.
63. Indrajit
What would have happened if Rama had completely lost the battle? Imagine a situation in which Rama must retreat from Lanka. How would he be received?
64. Kumbhakarna
Why was the monster able to be awakened before his time? What sort of curse is this that can be broken?
65. Hanuman and the Mountain
Extreme emotions lead to extreme strength. The heroes gain powers only when they most need them, apparently.
66. Lakshmana and Indrajit
You would think Rama would never trust the rakshasas. The rakshasas are always shown as fighting in tricky or dishonorable ways. They rarely fight in a straightforward manner.
67. Ravana's Lament
Even the "rakshasa dames" have a code of honor. Are the rakshasas more of a race of assorted deities rather than inherently evil beings? What could have been said between the rakshasa dames before Ravana came to get Sita?
69. Indra's Chariot
Rama is again receiving celestial weapons from the gods. The importance of the god's help in all endeavours.
71. Ravana's Death
Ultimately, Rama's power resided in the gods and their gifts. How would Rama thank them?
72. Mandodari's Lament
Even Ravana is given a warrior-king's funeral. There is a level of respect between the two sides that overcomes all (or most) antagonism. What could have been said between the two sides after the battle but before the funeral? Would they have discussed treaties and issues of Lanka's kingship?
73-74
Sita and Rama have been apart so long that there is some emotional distance between them. Does Rama not trust Sita that much? Actually, Rama was only making sure his subjects knew of Sita's purity and worthiness.
76. Rama and Bharata
How has the kingdom fared while Rama was in exile and during the battle? How would a simple villager view the return of Rama? Would he be welcomed with open arms or would the villager distrust someone who lacked experience in ruling the kingdom?
79. Sita Departs
Sita is having a rough go of it. Why don't the people of the kingdom accept Sita's fidelity? Why do they celebrate their king and yet not trust his belief in Sita's purity?
80. Rama Departs
Rama has ruled for a long time. How would the reunion between them have gone?
Bibliography
Various authors. Ramayana (public domain). Source.
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