I think it is very interesting how there are so many regional texts according to Ramujan (45). Each area has its own version of the story and there are certain exaggerations that happen based on what their beliefs are. This connects to Sita because there are several names for Sita. All of these things are interesting because this shows that these stories were translated throughout these regions by mouth and then they were written.
Ethan, I like that you brought up that people exaggerate based on their beliefs. It’s so important to keep in mind that the narrator of a story has a purpose and intent they are trying to push onto the audience, whether it’s intentional or not, and we should be aware of that when reading or listening to the story.
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The idea of a story with many different 'stories' is very interesting to the idea of discourse. Rashomon, a Japanese film from the 50's, is a good example. The movie tells the story of a murder from many perspectives. I think it is important to dwell on what informs each perspective of a Ramayana. What does a Dravidian Ramayana imply that a north Indian does not, or vice versa?
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I like how you mention and connect the oral tradition and how they are regional. It reminds me of how there is regional slang. For example in the South there are terms such as "y'all," "fixin' to," and "bless your heart" to name a few. If you go to a region and you use a term that they are unfamiliar with it can alter their entire understanding of what you are saying.
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I like Maggie's point about regional slang and how it changes depending on where you are. The same goes for translation and information in certain regions. Some cultures may say that a specific detail is not important to the story where others would disagree. I know specifically in Catholicism that they tend to focus heavily on a verse in John 6 that depicts the first instance of communion. Most modern Judaic Christians see this a symbolic sacrificial meal where Catholics take a more literal approach...
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