This novel is everything I question in the Mahabharata. The gender roles -- especially the position of women -- the inevitability of fate, the devotion to following conscience, morals, rules. She captures perfectly the melancholy sense of feeling in the epic of having to go along with fate and what's dictated/proper, knowing that doing what's right is going to lead to unforeseen consequences further on. It's depressing and excellent all at the same time.
I was thrilled to see Sikhandi pop up. I'd pretty much forgotten about her; I think the Narayan version just kind of dropped that whole Amba side plot, but the Epified videos included her in more depth. Her story is the epitome of the epic literature's sense of "this may seem unfair, but it's necessary," given the cultural context and way things have to eventually play out. She's stuck in terrible situations, is still a strong figure, and doesn't seem too bitter about everything even as she's dedicated to seeking revenge. It's a crazy kind of mindset to think about, but it's so typical of the characters in these epics.
The Karna angle is also interesting. There's so many hints for what's coming for Draupadi, but at the same time, her attraction to Karna is a different twist. I want to helpfully warn her and smack her all at the same time. Divakaruni does a great job of bringing out both the princess's strength of independent will and also her flaws of impatience and pride. Draupadi isn't the most perfect or likeable character, even as readers root for her. It's a pretty realistic portrayal.
Dhrishtadyumna announces Draupadi's swayamvara
(source)
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