Who writes history? Much of Indian history before the arrival of Muslims in the 11th century survives primarily in literary form, as stories and legends. Consider the Mahabharata as a historical document. What insights does it provide about the era it depicts and the individuals who composed it? For example, you could compare elements of classical India with those of medieval Europe. What implications arise from interpreting history through a literary work?

Religion and society: Explore the similarities and differences between Hinduism, as depicted in the Mahabharata, and Buddhism, another major world religion originating in India. Analyze how Hinduism organizes society and salvation through the caste system and how Buddhism critiques this structure.

What defines a hero? The Mahabharata features numerous examples of Hindu heroes, particularly in the character of Yudhishthira. Describe his traits and compare them to those of an epic hero from Western traditions, such as Odysseus from Homer's Odyssey or Achilles from his Iliad. What distinguishes these heroes as "eastern" or "western"? What qualities do they have in common? Apply this analysis to characters like Bhima, Arjuna, or Duryodhana.