Hinduism
Answer the following two essay questions. The essays must be at least 500 words in length.
- The role of women has been a prominent and persistent feature of Hinduism throughout this course. Pārvatī asserting her independence and power apart from Śiva (in the Birth of Gaṇeśa story from the Śiva Purāṇa and in the Kumarasambhava), to Sītā’s trial-by-fire in the Rāmāyaṇa, and the role they have played in modern Hindu reform movements (see textbook by Knott) are some prominent examples. Because of this, women have had a seminal position in the Hindu tradition throughout its long history. Drawing on concrete examples we have explored in class (readings, textbook, lectures, Powerpoints, films, etc.), discuss and assess the varying roles women have played in the literature, traditions, and development of Hinduism.
2. The films “Sant Tukaram” and “Devi” were created in the early or mid-20th century. The first was created during the Colonial Period in 1937 and focused on a 17th century Bhakti (devotional) movement. The film also celebrated how devotion can transcend the rigidity of traditional caste laws. The second film, “Devi,” was made in the post-Colonial Period (i.e., after 1947) and is critical of Hindu beliefs. The film is set in the 19th century focuses on the manifestation of the goddess Kālī in a young girl named Doya. The film also explores both the public and family dynamics of this formalized devotion to a living being. Using reading material textbook, articles, lectures, etc., discuss whether these films reflect living Hindu tradition, both past and present. Taken together, how do these two films help shape or broaden your understanding of Hinduism? Make sure to bring up concrete examples from the films (clip references) when writing your essay.
Question 1
Text
Birth of Gaṇeśa from the Śiva Purāṇa.pdf
Textbook
Hinduism
A very Short Introduction
ISBN- 978-0-19-874554-9
Question 2
Films
Devi (1960)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1G-zjtErp5Wu28Q8omPBtKSTTGZt79e2i/view?usp=sharing
Sant Tukaram 1936
