Mandodari's Lament And The Funerals Comments

In the legend of Rama and Sita, which was written by Valmiki in the sixth century B.C., the hero is a mixture of types. Rama seems saintly in going into exile, full of consideration for everyone. When Sita is abducted, however, he becomes a great violent warrior determined to annihilate the enemy. Originally a loving husband, he treats Sita badly to prove her virtue. Finally, he returns home to rule as king. In this combination of holy man, warrior, scornful husband, king, and a god's incarnation one sees the diverse aspirations of Indian society transformed into a plausible hero. [Cliff Notes]