By: Joy Marie D. BlascoBEED-ENGLISH III

Who are the important characters in the epic? Describe their physical

appearances and explain their roles and significance in the

epic.

RamaAs per Hindu tradition,

Rama is the incarnation or Avatar of Lord Vishnu and the primary intent of this avatar was to show the righteous path or Dharma to all the creatures that live on earth.

Rama personifies the characteristics of an ideal

person.His beauty is beyond description.

Rama

• Extremely handsome• Well-built• With bow and arrow• Has broad shoulders• Strong

“He is very tall and lean but not bony. The flesh covers his body at optimum level but he possesses great physical strength which is unmatched. He is an expert in archery. His hands are long, hair thick and long and flowing. His neck is long and well shaped. His voice is very sweet and mesmerises one and all. His body is well shaped, all parts in right proportions and unblemished in health and strength. His walking style is very attractive like a lion. He is confident in every true sense.”

http://www.chennailivenews.com/Religion/Columns/20100808110800/The-great-qualities-of-Rama.aspx

LakshmanaRama's younger brother by Dasaratha's third wife, Sumitra. When Rama and Sita were exiled to the forest, Lakshmana followed in order to serve.

AttractiveStrongGood in ArcheryWell-built

HanumanA leader of the monkey

tribe allied with Rama against Ravana. Hanuman has many magical powers because his father was the god of the wind. Hanuman's devotion to Rama, and his supernatural feats in the battle to recapture Sita, has made him one of the most popular characters in the Ramayana.

• Hanuman personifies strength, chastity, valour and dedication.

• Has a long tail, a crown and body in the shape of a Vaanar. Apart from a massive body structure, he could fly, uproot trees, and lift arches, mountains and buildings with his hand.

http://www.spiritualliving360.com/index.php/hinduism-characteristics-and-attributes-of-hanuman-2-16550/