Do Now:      In Greek mythology, tragedy is the result of someone's innate flaw. The Greeks like the
                     HIndus believe that man has control over his fate.  Do you believe that you are the 
                     arbiter of your own destiny and that you have control over the outcome of you life? 
                     Why?  Why not?    .

Aim:             Read The Ramayana and answer ten questions to determine if both Rama and 
                     Ravana are responsible for their own fates.

                  Steps: 
                            Review Do Now
                            Handout: The Ramayana: A "Telling" of the Ancient Indian Epic*
                            Handout: Ramayana Glossery
                            Handout questions:

1) Why was Ravana such a successful ruler?
2) How does Ravana react to Shurpanakha's description of 
    Sita?
3) What does Ravana decide to do?
4) Who does he consult and what advice is he given?
5) On what grounds does Ravana persuade Mareecha to help
     him?
6) Do you think this is Ravana's real reason? If not, what is it?
7) Why doesn't Ravana listen to Mareecha's words? What
    would you say about him and other who do not listen to 
    others' advice?
8) Contrast Ravana to Rama.  Did he make the right decision 
    going after the golden deer? Why or Why not?  Who warned 
    him?
9) Why does Rama go?
10) Why does Lakshmana leave Sita?
11) How does Ravana carry Sita off?  Why can't he touch her?
 

Concluding discussion ( based on your answers, do the characters in  Ramayana have control over their own fate, or is their fate controlled by outside forces?

*Spotlight on Ramayana: An Enduring Tradition/American Forum for Global Education