Reading Notes: Narayan's Mahabharata, Part B

 These reading notes are over Part B of Narayan's Mahabharata, which is written by R.K. Narayan. 

Plot Notes:

• Part A contextualized the various characters and the began rivalry between Duryodhana and the Pandavas. Part B progressed the plot significantly and highlighted specific weaknesses with characters, especially with Yudhishtra. Yudhishtra's addiction to gambling and his willingness to lose everything in both games highlighted how clever and manipulative Duryodhana truly was.
• Many details established in Part A come full circle in Part B, and smaller side plots hold great significance in justifying character motivations or general world-building. One of the major examples of this was Drona's rivalry with Drupada. While the Pandavas assisted in attacking Drupada's kingdom, they are now allies through their marriage with Draupadi. As a result, Duryodhana used these details to advocate to attack the Pandavas and preserve their own kingdom. I had forgotten about these developments in Part A, but I now realize how significant smaller details can be within the epic.
• The gambling scene was really interesting, as it was centered around trickery with dice. Betting was the primary form of destruction for the Pandavas, but I was curious on the rules of the game and how it functioned.
  
• The various symbols of wealth and prosperity were significant in Part B. After Duryodhana became jealous with the beauty of the Pandavas' kingdom, they built the Crystal Palace. This allowed Duryodhana to craft his plan of gambling to trick and rob the Pandavas of all that they have.
• Fate and destiny was an important plot device used throughout Part B. For example, Yudhishtra was warned from Vyasa, which is the author of the narrative, that the next 13 years are going to be difficult, and his caste will be wiped out due to his actions. Yudhishtra attempted to avoid fate, but he could not do so. Likewise, the king was warned repeatedly, both in the past and present, of the evil nature of Duryodhana. I found this to be really interesting, because it may indicate that the king loves his son too much to properly acknowledge the importance of prophecies.

Style Notes:

• I enjoyed the dialogue between Duryodhana and Sakuni, as it allowed us to understand just how blessed the Pandavas were. The Pandavas had full support from the gods, highlighting their righteous nature. It also contrasted them with Duryodhana's jealousy and desire for wealth and power over the Pandavas. The prince hated his cousins and was fueled by a want to destroy them. 

 

A pair of dice. Source: Wikimedia