Rama is going into exile and everyone is upset, except Rama who seems to be very calm about the whole situation. I was surprised by the level of devotion the characters have, such as Lakshmana and Sita wanting to go into exile with Rama.
Everyone is trying to convince Rama not to go by he leaves anyway. Dasharatha dies when he finds out about Rama's final departure.
Rama's brother finds out about his brother's exile and Dasharatha's death. Instead of taking the throne for himself, he finds Rama and unsuccessfully tries to convince him to return. I thought it was very admirable how Bharatha didn't just follow his mother's wishes and immediately take the crown.
Eventually, he decides to rule just while Rama is gone.
Throughout their journey, they meet Anasuya (the wife of a sage) and Shurpanakha (Ravana's sister). They also run across Ravana who desires Sita, and asks his uncle Maricha for help capturing her.
In the end, Maricha dies. However, it seemed as karma served him right.
I liked how Sita and Rama have a continuous devotion for one another, even through everything they are enduring. Rama is always concerned with Sita's safety and Sita gave up her life to accompany Rama on his journey.
I think it is important to note Sita and Rama's enduring devotion. I also like how you pointed out that Rama is ALWAYS concerned with Sita's safety as well as pointing out that Sita sacrificed so much to be with Rama. Taking it a step further, I loved Sita's devotion to Rama even in the midst of Ravana's pursuit. That was probably my favorite part of the story!
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