The archetype of the pathetic man, between objectivation and objectification

Abstract

Abstract The wisdom expressed by the great epic Hindu story is for one to do his own duty, even partially, than doing better someone else’s duty. Even partial, the fulfillment of his own duty makes possible the connection of individuals and communities to the larger, greater universal harmony. This is dharma. Obeying dharma, fulfilling the inherent duty, means taking part to the greater plan set up besides individual petty interests and selfish actions. Whenever dharma is in danger, no longer praised by humans, the world is on the brink of chaos. There is the moment when the avatar of the Great Lord Vishnu is taking his humanly aspect, teaching the lesson of dharma, destroying the world and even the whole humanity if needed, in order to restore universal harmony, as depicted in the epic story of Mahābhārata.