The D/DD of Mahabharata: Arjuna vs. Karna, Villain and Tragic Hero

When delving into the epic of Mahabharata, a question arises: who truly deserves the title of heroArjuna or Karna? This article critically examines their respective roles in the narrative, particularly focusing on the dice game and its aftermath.

Arjuna: A Multifaceted Figure

The depiction of Arjuna as the hero of Mahabharata has been widely accepted, but a closer observation reveals underlying complexities. Arjuna is often criticized for his moral ambiguities, particularly his treatment of women. Writing him off as a character devoid of heroism is not entirely fair, yet there are elements of his character that indeed make him a villain.

Arjuna's interactions with Draupadi, his fellow Pandava's wife, highlight his less admirable traits. In a particularly memorable scene, Arjuna calls Draupadi 'Bheekalm' (alms) when she comes seeking help. This act is not only disrespectful but also deeply humiliating. By dividing Draupadi among his brothers, Arjuna fulfills the desires of his brothers while undermining her dignity. Such actions underscore his manipulative and sometimes cruel behavior.

While Karna may be portrayed as a tragic hero, it is important to acknowledge the flaws within Arjuna's character. Arjuna is not just a hero; he is also a flawed character whose actions at times border on villainy. His jealousy and greed are evident in numerous scenes throughout the epic, particularly in his treatment of Eklavya and his cruelty towards a Nishada woman.

Karna: A Complex Tragic Hero

Contrary to popular belief, Karna is not merely a tragic hero; he is also a victim of circumstances and his own choices. Vyasa, the author of the Mahabharata, does not treat Karna as a tragic figure but as a character belonging to the 'Evil Quartet' alongside Duryodhana, Dushasana, Shakuni, and Karna. Karna's tragic nature lies less in his actions and more in his birth story and subsequent life choices.

Contrasted with the relatively humble beginnings of Arjuna, Karna's life is depicted as one of prosperity and privilege. Raised in the loving home of Adiratha and Durya, Karna enjoyed the best of Hastinapur's education and training, including instruction from Drona in the art of warfare. Conversely, the Pandavas, while noble, faced hardships, especially during their exile in the forest.

While Karna's tragic life indeed started with his abandonment as an infant, his adult choices and actions often exhibit a willingness to engage in war and dishonor. His decision to disrobe Draupadi further cemented his villainous traits. Karna's fixations on material wealth and his pursuit of a war-driven existence highlight his tragic flaw. Whether one feels sympathy for Karna or not, his actions clearly align him with the villainous characters of the Mahabharata.

The Battle for Kingdom: A Greener Shade

Archetypal heroes and villains are readily identified in many narratives, but the Mahabharata challenges this binary. Unlike the clear-cut good and evil of Ramayana, the Mahabharata presents shades of gray among its characters. Everyone in Mahabharata has a mix of virtues and vices, and the conflict is more about differing viewpoints rather than absolute moral superiority.

After the epic war, the world did not suddenly transform into a utopia. Instead, the Kaliyuga (an age characterized by spiritual and moral decline) continued, indicating the complex moral landscape at play. The Mahabharata portrays a struggle of perspective and belief, as various characters vie for power and justice, often with questionable means.

While Kaliyuga symbolizes a decline in morals, it also serves as a backdrop for the continued complexity of human nature. Characters such as Duryodhana, introducing himself as the god to his subjects, and Karna's unswerving devotion to his path highlight the mutable nature of moral roles within the epic.

Conclusion

The characters of Mahabharata cannot be neatly categorized into heroes and villains. Both Arjuna and Karna embody a range of human emotions and actions, leading them to reside at the grey-shaded realm of moral ambiguity. Arjuna, despite his flaws, continues to be a complex and multifaceted hero, showcasing the intricate web of humanity in the epic. Similarly, Karna, though sometimes viewed as a tragic figure, is ultimately a character consumed by his choices, leading him towards the villainous end.

Understanding Mahabharata in its true essence involves recognizing the interconnectedness and complexity of its characters. It is a narrative of human nature, where the boundaries between good and evil are blurred, and the journey of the soul often converges with paths marked by both virtue and vice.