Literature

Yamato Plot Summary

This plot summary, by Hero's Journey Project scholar Stephania Burke, outlines the myth of Yamato Takeru within the Monomyth format.

Call to Adventure

The myth of Yamato Takeru takes place during the semi-historical period of national consolidation under the rulers of the main Yamato clan. (map of Yamato) Emperor Keikô (legendary or semi-historical 12th emperor, reigned 71-130 A.D. [present emperor is the 125th]) is on the throne. According to the myths and records, Emperor Keikô is said to have lived...

Ramayana through Dance

Music and dance are core aspects of retellings of the Ramayana. As part of the Hero's Journey Project, ORIAS contributors interviewed dancer and choreographer, Jyoti Rout. Footage of the dance she choreographed and performed for ORIAS, the Navarasa, has been lost. However, comments from her interview can help unfamiliar viewers interpret performances.

On The Classical East Indian Temple Dance of Orissa

Odissi is an ancient,...

Teaching World Literature

A short selection of resources on the value and challenges of teaching World Literature.

The Shahnameh

Close-up image from Mongol-era version of the Shahnameh showing Alexander and a talking horse.

Read a summary of the epic. Learn about its history and its author. Compare dozens of versions of the same scene in an extensive database. Plus, recommendations for English-language versions of the epic for children.