Arshia Sattar

Fall 2010
HACU/IA 174 Indian Epics: Considering The Ramayana and the Mahabharata in the 21st Century

Course description:

The Indian Epics: Considering the Ramayana and the Mahabharata in the 21st Century: The course is based on as close a reading as possible (through abridged translations and re-tellings) of the Sanskrit Ramayana and the Mahabharata. We will read the epics as literary texts but be fully and richly aware of the religious and ethical universe to which they not only belong but which they help to create and sustain. Reading the epics themselves will be supplemented by classical and recent theatre and film recensions of these stories in order to examine what gets carried forward how it is re-conceived for a new time and place. In doing so, we will consider what makes a classic, what (if it all) makes these 'Indian? texts, what transfers with grace and what falls by the way. Additionally, we will also briefly explore the constraints and freedoms of the genres and media through which the epics are explored ? in this case, literature, drama and film. Apart from abridged translations of the epics, readings will include classical plays by Bhasa and Andha Yug. Screenings will include Peter Brook's Mahabharata, Sita Sings the Blues and Raajneeti. No prerequisites. This course satisfies Division I distribution requirements. MCP, REA, WRI.:

Articles
"Lost Loves"

In which Arshia Sattar discusses her relationship with The Ramayana and reasons to read the epic.

http://pratilipi.in/2009/10/lost-loves-arshia-sattar/

Interviews with Arshia Sattar
Arshia is interviewed by Aditi Sharma of Mid Da'y

http://mid-day.com/whatson/2009/nov/131109-Rama-Sita-Arshia-Sattar.htm

Interview by Venetia Ansell of Sanskrit Literature about Arshia's experience translating the Ramayana from Sanskrit to English

http://venetiaansell.wordpress.com/2008/06/26/interview-arshia-sattar/

Link to interview with Arshia on NPR program On Point

http://www.onpointradio.org/2010/07/indias-great-epics