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Draupadi in the Mahabharata

Research output: Contribution to Journal/MagazineJournal articlepeer-review

Published
<mark>Journal publication date</mark>05/2013
<mark>Journal</mark>Religion Compass
Issue number5
Volume7
Number of pages10
Pages (from-to)169–178
Publication StatusPublished
Early online date24/05/13
<mark>Original language</mark>English

Abstract

This paper will explore three dimensions of Draupadī’s literary personality: (1) as a divine figure with a cosmic destiny; (2) as an enraged and defenseless victim of sexual abuse; and (3) as a female scholar (paṇḍitā),who contributes to the Mahābhārata’s programmatic examination of dharma (justice). By looking at these three interconnected aspects of her character, the paper will trace her main appearances in the story, engage with scholarly discussions about her literary persona, and reflect upon how Draupadī provides a unique perspective from which to appreciate the Mahābhārata.