Post Graduate Diploma in Comparative Mythology

Department of Sanskrit, Mumbai University

Academic Year: 2019-20

Paper I
Date: 10th July 2020
Maximum marks: 100

Instructions:

• This is an open-book examination and answer scripts have to be submitted

electronically before Monday – 13th July 2020 – 0800 hrs.
• Please limit your answer to 250 words for critical notes and 500 words for descriptive
answers. In case you choose to use illustrations in addition to words, please use only
one illustration per critical note and two illustrations per descriptive question.
Illustrations if any, should be original. Please do not paste photographs or any other
material from public or copyright sources to illustrate your answers. Plagiarism in any
form is strictly prohibited.
• Please answer all questions in order. Additional attempts do not lead to additional
marks. The examiner will not evaluate any additional attempts.
• All questions carry equal marks.
• This question paper has two pages.

Question 1A. 20
Write critical notes on any two of the following:
a) Max Mueller’s contribution to the study of mythology
b) Contribution of Freud and Jung to the interpretation of myths
c) J.G. Frazer’s contribution to the sphere of mythological studies

Question 1B. 20
Please attempt any one of the following:
The repertoire of Indian myths has been enriched from a multitude of sources. Analyse this
statement in detail.
OR
The understanding of myths with respect to the uses of myths is continuously evolving.
Critically examine this statement with respect to the theoretical development of mythological
studies.

PG Diploma in Mythology, Sanskrit Department, Mumbai University

Paper I – Academic Year, 2019-20
Page 1 of 2
Question 2A. 20
Write critical notes on any two of the following:
a) Indra is the darling deity of the Vedas. Discuss his mythical significance.
b) Evolution of mythology with respect to rivers through the ages
c) The myths of Rudra-Shiva adorn many caves in and around Mumbai. Discuss.

Question 2B. 20
Please attempt any one of the following:
The Ramkatha has left an indelible impact on the socio-political fabric of India. Critically
examine the statement.
OR
Discuss the evolution of the worship of Shakti or the Mother Goddess with specific examples
from the Indian context.

Question 3. 20
Please attempt any one of the following:
‘Man is a symbol making animal’. Discuss this statement with respect to any two symbols in
the Indian context.
OR
Discuss the concept of sacrifice and its subsequent development with special reference to
myths.

PG Diploma in Mythology, Sanskrit Department, Mumbai University

Paper I – Academic Year, 2019-20
Page 2 of 2