IN CLASS: Astika
- Due May 8, 2024 by 11:59pm
- Points 10
- Submitting a text entry box or a file upload
- Available May 7, 2024 at 12am - May 31, 2024 at 11:59pm
Please read the following story about Astika, which comes from the first book of the Mahābhārata.
What is this story about, in terms of themes? It’s an entertaining tale but (in my humble opinion) most such tales in the Mahabharata are essentially thought-experiments, or function like ones. So, what kind of food for thought do you find here? Think of the story’s thematic reference. Our epic is rolling towards another holocaust, the great war between our irreconcilable cousins, the Pandavas and the Kauravas. In Astika's story, by contrast, the unfolding holocaust of snakes is stopped. How is the Mahabharata thinking about this sacrifice of snakes, its causes and its sudden end? Finally, do you see how Astika is especially suited for the role he plays in the story?
As usual, please also record your reactions, thoughts, and/or questions.
Group One Links to an external site.
Group Two Links to an external site.
Group Three Links to an external site.
Group Four Links to an external site.
Group Five Links to an external site.
Group Six Links to an external site.
Find Rubric