Exam 2013, questions PDF

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Mahabharata Exam Questions Critically comment on: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

The structural and thematic relevance of the game of dice in the Mahabharata. The question posed by Draupadi after the game of dice. Karna’s allegiance to Duryodhan/Birth vs ability of Karna. The absence of Krishna from the game of dice. Role of Vidura. “The Ancients bequeathed us the rules of the game, There is no evil in it, nor blows.” 7. Yudhishthira as he appears during the game of dice in the Mahabharata. 8. Role of Shakuni. 9. The significance of Vikarna’s protest. 10. The ritual of Rajasuya Yajna. 11. The significance of Draupadi being dragged to court by her hair. 12. The significance of Draupadi reminiscing about her marriage to the five Pandavas. 13. “There are those who own no property, A student, a slave, a dependent woman; The wife of a slave, you are his now, my dear; A masterless slave wench, you are now slave wealth.” 14. The representation of Bhima in the prescribed text. Long Answer Questions 1. “Draupadi’s troubles were brought on by the people of this world, particularly by her husbands.” Discuss. 2. Examine the role of Shakuni in the game of dice, with special reference to the structures of power that operate in this context. 3. “The world of Mahabharata, when seen from the point of view of women, is one of power structures controlled by men.” How do the prescribed parts of the book bring this out? Discuss. 4. “Although women gained status through husbands and sons, they create a remarkable space for themselves within the limits set for them, almost subverting patriarchal order.” Discuss. 5. The Mahabharata is often referred to as a ‘dharma shastra’. What moral issues were raised during the dicing and the sequel? 6. Critically comment on the implications of Draupadi’s questions and the responses of those present. 7. Would you agree that the episode of the dicing game offers a critique of the heroic ideal in the Mahabharata?...