Reading Notes: Raja Rasalu (Part B)

Part of Raja Rasalu's larger-than-life persona in these tales comes from the fact that everybody seems to know about him and (for the most part) respect him. He's constantly stirring up antics, and for the most part it's because everyone around him lets it happen and observes with reverence. In fact, one of the plot points in the "Hunter" section was that the hunter's wife didn't believe he had actually seen Raja Rasalu, his fame so intense.

A painting of a Raja (Wikimedia Commons)

The use of verse is even stronger here in Part B than it was in Part A. The exchange between the two deer is one powerful example, as is the last section in which Rasalu offers the other Raja revisions to his poem.

Bibliography. The Adventures of the Punjab Hero Raja Rasalu by Charles Swynnerton. Web Link.

Reading Notes: Raja Rasalu (Part A)

The most striking writing element throughout the tales of Raja Rasalu was the repetitive verse, usually offered by Rasalu himself. It definitely gave the stories an added mythic quality as sometimes the poetry came as prophecy and other times to tell some of the lore.

Rasalu's game with the king. (Wikimedia Commons)

Throughout Part A, Rasalu accomplishes legendary feats that aren't really explained. In a way this helps him feel like a godly character, as you never really know what he's capable of. Oftentimes, these great feats of strength or skill seem to be played for comedic effect, as in the case with the 70 maidens on the swing. 

Bibliography. Tales of the Punjab, translated by Flora Annie Steel. Web link.

Tech Tip: Google Map

For this week's tech tip I chose to learn how to embed a map in my blog. I chose a map of Toronto, because it's the first place I'd love to visit when I get a passport. I've never been out of the country, and Canada seems like a neat place that wouldn't be too expensive to travel to.