The Ramayana in Southeast Asia

http://www.ias.berkeley.edu/orias/SEARama/RamaStandards.htm

Description: The spread of the universal themes and ideals in the Indian epic, Ramayana, are an important example of cultural diffusion and adaptation from South Asia to neighboring countries. In ancient times, Ramayana was probably brought from India to the neighboring countries of Southeast Asia through oral transmission. Each culture in Southeast Asia has interpreted the Ramayana slightly differently. The epic themes and ideals of righteous behavior, loyalty to family and kingdom, the balancing of good and evil, self-sacrifice for the betterment of society, morality, role of family, the exploration of ideal relationships provide both global appeal and an opportunity for expression of local cultural identity. Learn about the Ramayana through making a mask, creating a story cloth, and/or manipulating traditional shadow puppets. Standard 6.5.7

Author: Donna Kasprowicz, Corte Madera Middle School, Portola Valley

Lesson ID: 1066