Reading Notes: PDE Mahabharata Part D

These notes are from chapter 69, "The Night Raid" from Indian Myth and Legend by Donald A. Mackenzie (from 1913). 

• As expected, it is night!
• Duryodhana is dying
• He gives Ashwatthaman permission to attack the Pandavas while they sleep
• Does he need permission because it's such a cowardly act? 
• Drona is angry about his father's death (of course!) 
• "to glut his hunger for vengeance"
• So they are on the same battlefield
• All he has to do is sneak into the tent
• So Shivia is the one to protect Pandava camp?
• Instead of trying to fight more, Drona's son he makes a fire to worship
• He kills himself on the fire? 
• So, now I'm a bit confused. Shiva enters Drona's body- is he going to slay the Pandavas because of the sacrifice?
• Okay, so yes! it looks like some of the Pandavas die in a slaughter- and Duryodhan is can die happy

Thoughts:

• I'm kind of disappointed in this tale! I think it's cowardly to kill enemies while they sleep, so it surprises me that Shivia allowed it to happen. 
• Maybe it's part of the plan??
• Also, I was tired to Duryodhana, so I'm glad he's gone-maybe people will start chillin' now that he's not here to cater to his sons. 
• If I was to change this story, Shiva would kill Ashwatthaman or disagree with his actions at least! 

Image Information:
Ashvatthama uses Narayanastra
Found on: Wikipedia