The Ramayana, which plays a vital role in Hindu culture. Although many versions of the Ramayana exist and have been used to both maintain and challenge common Indian values, Western scholars are most familiar with the version written by Valmiki (3001400 BCE), which affirms Rama’s virtuousness American audiences may be most familiar with a version of the Ramayana as presented by the animated film, Sita Sings the Blues (2008),by Nina Paley, which prominently features Sita. Based on your viewing of Sita Sings the Blues and a reading of ‘Introduction: The Diversity of the Ramayana Tradition, “respond to the following in essay format:Questions. What is one parallel between the lives of Sita and Nina Paley? What seems to be the purpose and audience of Nina Paley’s retelling of the Ramyayana?2. How do Sita and Rama demonstrate a devotion to their dharma? How are their actions praiseworthy, and how are they subject to criticism (keeping in mind whether your assessment is from an Indian or
Western perspective)?3. How are the many versions of the Ramayana evidence of globalization? before your response. The Bonus response IS included in the word count.4. What may be considered American woman retelling an over 2,000-year-old Indian epic?
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