Reading Notes: Ramayana Part C

Story 1 - Sampati and Jatayu¹

The story of Sampati and Jatayu has the underlying theme of getting carried away. Quite literally, in this case, the two eagles that 'flew too high in the sky'.
It feel as though the meeting of Sampati is the result of Karma's influence. As Rama witnessed the death of Jatayu, he is then destined to find his brother in order to locate Ravana, Jatayu's killer^{2 3}.
It is through helping Jatayu, is Sampati inclined to inform them about the whereabouts of Sita's location.

Story 2 - Hanuman's Leap ⁴

I found this story to be entertaining do to the outlandishness of the jumping competition between the monkeys. It started simple with them simply one-upping each other, but then it is told that Hanuman was able to jump "three thousand leagues towards [the sun]"
In owning up to these stories of prowess, Hanuman is given the task up bounding across the sea to the city of Lanka. Of course, he was able to do so.

Story 3 - Hanuman and Sita⁵

I felt that the stubbornness of Sita in her commitment to Rama was a bit illogical. Having been trapped under Ravana's control for quite some time, and being told that she must please Ravana within two months' time, she should have gratefully escaped with Hanuman. But for some reason the only man she can touch is Rama. I feel that this is a major plot hole in the story, no conflict, and swift resolution.

Story 4 - Vibhishana⁶

This story had the most potential for being retold as it focuses on several key themes. The first and most notable theme is the one of jealousy. Ravana believing that his brother Vibhishana desired that Ravana be shamed by admitting defeat. However, in this case Vibhishana was speaking out of good will for Ravana's safety.

The second way that this story could be observed is by analyzing the fallacy of ad populum. Ravana believed that he was correct in not returning Sita simply because a large majority of his counsellors desired to fight Sugriva and Rama, to have the honor of slaying them in battle. This assumption that the majority of people are correct is not always true, and it is important to look at the underlying arguments before trusting the populace.

The inability for Ravana to listen to the reasoning of Vibhishana leads to him joining Rama in his camp. This can be seen in the image below.

Source

Bibliography

Sampati and Jatayu
Jatayu and Ravana
Rama and Jatayu
Hanuman's Leap
Hanuman and Sita
Vibhishana