Reading Notes: Narayan's Mahabharata, Part D

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

Plot Notes:

• I found it interesting how the Mahabharata went into such detail on the preparation for war as well as the logistics. It demonstrates that this epic didn't just convey a story of great narrative importance but also of geopolitical value. This war between the Pandavas and Duryodhana was really significant, and the details allow us, the readers, to envision the logistics and work put in to fight the war in the first place. From Krishna damming a river for water to Yudhishthira marching ahead of the troops, all were involved in the upcoming battle.
• Yudhishthira's action before the battle provides another example of his virtue and nobility in both peace and war. He crossed the battlefield, took off his armor, and showed respect for his elders and master before commencing war. Although justice and Krishna were on his side, Yudhishthira's actions demonstrate how much he valued family and tradition. It also gives us insight on how nobility is considered with competing obligations and ideals. Even those these men are his enemies, his nobility still shines through and is expressed through his actions.
• Bhishma's summoning of Duryodhana and eventual death was really powerful, as it demonstrated the complexity of morality within the battle itself. There was not a clean-cut divide of good vs. evil as is traditional in other epic battles, but we feel empathy and sadness for Bhishma. Still, we understand the necessity of his demise, and Bhishma's wisdom is shown when he recognizes it as well. His advice to Duryodhana pins back to the central driving theme across the Mahabharata: the opportunity for peace. Rather than continuing this war, Duryodhana can still make peace with his cousins and prevent bloodshed.
• Duryodhana's response to try to capture Yudhishthira shows how desperate he's becoming. Rather than fight the war and win or lose with honor, Duryodhana wants to try to capture and trick the leader into another gambling match and eventual exile.

Bhishma on a bed of arrows. Source: Wikipedia