Text: World Mythology: An Anthology of the Great Myths and Epics, 3rd edition ISBN: ISBN-13: 978-0-8442-5966-6 Author: Donna Rosenberg Publisher: McGraw-Hill Question 1: The Ramayana In preparing for this discussion the concept of dharma is extremely important. Note when the term is actually used throughout the epic and in what context. Try to determine to what extent evil or disruptive influences alter or attempt to alter a character`s dharma and to what extent they are sucessful. E.g. Did the circumstances leading to Rama`s exile deter him from living according to his true dharma? Please cite specific episodes from the story. What purpose does Vishnu serve by coming to Earth as a man? What purpose does the Ramayana serve as an instructional story for Indian culture? How do the four earthly appearances of Vishnu help the reader`s understanding of dharma? Question 2: Kotan Utunnai (Ainu) According to the Ainu, life after death depends on the qualities that an individual displays in the actions of this life. What are those qualities? How do they compare with other cultures? With our present day view of society? How do heroic qualities represented in an epic such as this one improve and preserve society? In examining Kotan Utunnai you may wish to take note of several features of its composition: Is the fact that this story is told in the 1st person significant? How does blood kinship and/or nationality affect bonds of loyalty? How does the ambiguity of the characters` status as mortal or immortal impact their actions? How does the ambiguity of the characters` status as good or evil impact your understanding?