CHARACTERS
Who is the powerful demon king who wants to destroy the gods and rule all worlds?
Ravana
What does Ravana do at the start of the story that angers the gods and sets the story in motion?
He attacks the heavens and takes over the world.
A two-wheeled vehicle pulled by horses, used in battle or travel in ancient times
Where does Rama live at the beginning of the story?
In the royal kingdom of Ayodhya
What does Rama’s calm acceptance of exile show about him? Use the word "dharma" in your final answer.
He values duty (dharma) above personal comfort.
Which god comes to Earth in human form as Rama?
Vishnu
How does Vishnu find a way to defeat Ravana?
By using a loophole to be born as a human, since Ravana could not be killed by gods or demons but can by human or animals.
What does distress mean?
A state of suffering, trouble, or fear
Where does Rama spend his exile?
In the forest (Dandaka) traveling from ashram to ashram in the beautiful nature.
Who are Rama’s loyal companions during exile?
His wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana
How does Rama win Sita’s hand in marriage?
He was able to lift the bow of Shiva (a feat that only a god could accomplish).
What does valiant mean?
Brave and courageous
What place does Ravana take over in the beginning of the story?
Swarga Loka (heavenly waiting room). He drove the gods out.
Which character’s greed and trickery lead to Sita’s kidnapping?
Maricha, who turns into the golden deer to distract Rama
Why is Rama sent into exile for fourteen years?
Because Queen Kaikeyi demands that her son Bharata be king and Rama be banished. Ramas father had promised this to Queen Kaikeyi. He is a man of his word and he honored his promised to the queen.
What does cunningly mean?
Cleverly or sneakily, usually to trick someone
Who are the two people who show true loyalty to Rama during his exile—one by protecting his throne, and one by fighting for Sita?
Bharata (who refuses the throne) and Jatayu (who defends Sita)
What chain of events leads from the golden deer to Sita’s abduction? (4)
aricha lures Rama away; Lakshmana leaves to help; Sita is left alone; Ravana kidnaps her
what does avenge mean?
To get revenge or justice for a wrong