Week 6: Reading Diary

In studying the conflict between the Pandavas and the Kauravas, the king Dhritarashtra may be identified as a major source of turmoil for the Pandavas.
Even though he is caring and considerate of his nephews, he cannot overcome his bond with the "jackal"  ,Duryodhana, who coerces him into making reprehensible decisions. This prince displays such a ferocious contempt for the Pandavas that he continuously plots for their humiliation and demise. His plans are executed in the midst of the king without reproach due to Dhritarashtra's inability to take a firm stance with his own son. Duryodhana's actions seem to propel his kingdom further into a state of depravity.

(Draupadi declared as stake and lost by  Yudhishthira)

Arguably, some of the plots set by Duryodhana would not have been successful if not for the foolishness of the Pandavas. The reader may observe the gambling debts that are incurred by the king
Yudhishthira not once but twice. Some may argue that Yudhishthira does not incur these losses out of foolish pride but due to his promise never to make decisions that divide people. This coupled with his sense of obedience to his uncle may be seen as a more likely reason for the events that unfold surrounding his decision to gamble.