This will be my last week reading
Buck's retelling of the Mahabharata. Unfortunately, this portion of the story is the hardest for me to read. It vividly describes the devastation of war, acts of senseless violence and rage, as well as betrayal and dishonesty. I think this portion of the epic is meant to show the worst characteristics of humanity. It also demonstrates how war is the most effective catalyst for showcasing these characteristics. As I read about Bhima killing Duryodhana, I wonder how serious of an offense it was to strike someone below the waist. Will Bhima be condemned for this act? Does this make Duryodhana the “real” winner of the war? Or is the rule a mere recommendation that can be overlooked in dire situations. I wonder why the author chose to take away some of Bhima’s honor by having him kill his enemy in a dishonorable way. Despite the faults in judgement that the Pandava brothers displayed in war, they were still overall considered a greater good in comparison to Duryodhana.
My favorite scene in this portion of the reading was when king Dhitarashtra finally embraced and blessed the Pandava brothers after the war was over. In this moment it was as if both “sides” were simultaneously forgiving and apologizing to one another, while recognizing that each party had to do what was necessary for them. I would like to read more about the relationship between Dhitarashtra and the Pandava brothers moving forward. I would imagine that he would adopt them as sons, and they would love him as if he was their father. However, it may be the case that too much evil has happened between their families.
Duel between Duryodhana and Bhima,
Author: Ramanarayanadatta astri, Date: not listed, Source: Wikimedia
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