The ancient stories of India invite us to face the realities of the everyday, small success, great achievements, ordinary failures, and undeniable crimes. None of us are spared when we look into the characters and try to see ourselves in them all---for this is part of the power of mythology, to imagine and empathize, to breach the unreachable chasm of consciousness, history, and culture so that we can peer with humility and respect into our shared humanity. In this seminar we will take up two stories of heroines and heroes in some detail, the story of Shakuntala in both Mahabharata and the famous dramatic rendition of Kalidasa, and the story of Damayanti and Nala whose tale is for the ages. These are not merely old stories from long ago and far away, they are trenchant, helpful, and compelling opportunities to engage mythology as a tool and method for a richer understanding of light and shadow, of human nature and mortal life, and of our highest aspirations and hopes for a better world. No previous experience or familiarity is assumed or required. We'll tell the stories and you will be able to make them your own. Join the conversation.
Full weekend attendance strongly recommended.
Friday 11/1 6-8:30pm
Saturday 11/2 10:30-1pm
Saturday 11/2 2:30-5pm
Sunday 11/3 10am-1pm
Pricing: Full weekend $175 early bird by 10/26, $195 after, Drop-ins allowed as space permits: $50/ session by 10/26, $60 after.