16 Questions
What are the major themes of the epic Mahabharata?
Dharma, law, power, wealth, and the significance of events
How is Duryodhana's character explored in the unit?
Some unexplored aspects of Duryodhana's character are discussed
What is the significance of the dicing game in the Mahabharata?
The dicing game leads to the loss of kingdom, brothers, self, and the humiliation of Draupadi
How is the character of Draupadi evaluated in the text?
The character of Draupadi and the significance of events that follow the dicing game are evaluated in detail
What does the unit help us decipher about power and wealth?
The unit helps us decipher the workings of power and wealth
What will be explored at some length in the unit?
Questions of Dharma, the law, and their relevance in the lives of the characters
What is the name of the text under study?
The Dicing
Who built the 'celestial' assembly hall in the 'Book of the Assembly Hall'?
Maya, a Danava
What causes Duryodhana's acute distress and despair?
Witnessing the exuberance of Yudhistra’s ‘Maya’ palace at the Rajasuya sacrifice
Who tries to pacify Duryodhana after witnessing the exuberance of Yudhistra’s palace?
Sakuni, his maternal uncle
What did Sakuni reiterate to pacify Duryodhana?
The power and luck of the Pandavas
What did the Pandavas win with their effort and hard work, according to Sakuni?
Draupadi, undiminished wealth, and celestial weapons
What did Dhanamjaya win by sating the fire?
The bow Gandiva, two inexhaustible quivers, and celestial weapons
Who did the Pandavas win as their ally?
Drupada with his sons
What did the Pandavas win through their energy?
Undiminished wealth as their father’s portion, king of the earth
What did Dhanamjaya do to subjugate the kings?
With the superb bow and the might of his own arms
Study Notes
- The Mahabharata unit 2, "The Dicing," explores themes of Dharma, power, wealth, and the condition of women in ancient times.
- The Pandavas have gained celestial power and wealth after building a grand assembly hall, despite attempts by the Kauravas to harm them.
- Duryodhana, in despair, recounts his misery to his uncle Sakuni after witnessing the exuberance of Yudhisthira's palace during the Rajasuya sacrifice.
- Sakuni tries to reassure Duryodhana by reminding him of the Pandavas' good fortune, including their acquisition of Draupadi as a wife, allies, and celestial weapons.
- Sakuni also acknowledges the Pandavas' hard work and energy that contributed to their wealth and success, despite their initial inheritance.
- The Pandavas lost the game of dice that led to Draupadi's humiliation, but this event will be evaluated in detail for its significance on women's place in ancient times.
Explore the pivotal events and characters in Unit 2 of the Mahabharata, focusing on Duryodhana's misery, Pandavas' grandeur, the game of dice, and the humiliation of Draupadi. Delve into the emotional manipulation, reversal of fortune, and the ethical dilemmas faced by Yudhisthira. Test your knowledge of this dramatic segment of the epic.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
