ICH 2020/21

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://repository.kln.ac.lk/handle/123456789/23178

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An Analysis of the Concept of Psychiatry Related to Buddhist Practices
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Vithana, Sajini Wasundra
This research study seeks to explore the manner in which practices based in Buddhism can be identified and applied as practical psychotherapy. Psychiatry is branch of western medicine that recommends treatment for mental and psychological disorders caused by physiological and psychological factors. Psychotherapy can be defined as psychotherapeutic modalities for the treatment of mental illnesses based on psychological approaches and regulations. Hence, due to the many aspects of Buddhist culture such as bodhi pooja, meditation, sill observance, dhamma discourse and pilgrimage, this study argues for the existence of an interconnection between Buddhist practices and psychiatry. Accordingly, this research study attempts to inquire the means across which Buddhist practices can be used as a psychotherapy. The purpose of this inquiry is to portray the value of psychotherapy that is embodied in Buddhist practices, to the present society. The research study takes upon a qualitative research approach where literary and scientific sources were analysed closely. This study concludes that Buddhist practices can be used as a form of psychiatric treatment and healing in overcoming psychological conditions and challenges to mental health such as stress, tension, frustration, depression, and many other ailments that prevail in today’s society as a result of social inequalities, and pressures. Therefore, this study depicts the potential for further research on studies centred on Buddhist practices as means of promoting mental health
An Analysis on the Impact of Sequencing of Grammar in English Textbooks Used in Sri Lankan Government Schools from Grades 6-8 in the Achievement of Intended Learning Outcomes
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Amrasinghe, Hiranya
The present study focuses on the investigation of the sequencing of grammar lessons in government English textbooks from grades 6 to 8. Despite the prestigious position that English holds within the country, it is a well-known fact that the English language competency of majority of students in schools and universities is below the expected standard. According to the evaluation reports of the Ordinary Level English examinations published by the Department of Examinations (2015-2018), it is evident that the results of majority of the students have been subpar and that most of them have failed the exam. In 2015, only 55.44% of the school candidates have obtained weak passes for the O/L exam paper, and in 2016, only 52.00% obtained weak passes, while in 2017 the percentage further declined to 11.12%. The year 2018 saw a rise of 45.10% which is approximately only half of the examination candidates. Furthermore, the 2018 O/L evaluation report accounted that English is the subject with the highest rate of failure. The O/L English exam paper is prepared largely based upon language lessons learnt from grades 6 to 11. The English language curriculum for the afore mentioned grades are developed by the National Institute of Education (NIE), upon which textbooks have been prepared for students. Although, teaching methods and the availability of resources for students may differ based on individual teaching style and location, respectively, the syllabus and textbooks remain as constant factors that impact the students’ language learning processes. Therefore, there arises a need to assure the quality of textbooks. Hence, the main objective of this study is to investigate the impact of sequencing of grammar lessons in English textbooks to examine their influence on the leaner’s ability to use the English language within target language use domains accurately and effectively. Accordingly, this study concludes that the examination of the quality of textbooks could be perceived as a stepping-stone towards the development of English language skills of the students.
A Comparative Study on the Acceptances of Moodle by the High Proficient and Low Proficient Level ESL Undergradu- ates in the Faculty of Business Studies and Finance
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Hakadewaththe, Nipuni P.; Chandrasekara, N.; Bandara, Rajindra P.
The escalation of technology has provided educational institutions with opportuni- ties to blend the technology into their curriculum. This study is done to compare and contrast the acceptance of Moodle by the high proficient and low proficient under- graduates. This study mainly focuses on the participation of students in assignments, quizzes and discussion forums in the online learning platform. This research study was conducted using the mix method since the data of the research were gathered and analyzed by using both quantitative and qualitative methods within the same study. The actual research instruments employed in the study were based on a ques- tionnaire and interviews. This study was conducted on 510 participants of the Fac- ulty of Business Studies and Finance at the Wayamba University in Sri Lanka based on the purposive sampling technique to investigate the acceptance of the Moodle by the participants. The qualitative information was analyzed using the questionnaires. Further, the findings demonstrate that the participation in the activities by the stu- dents in both groups in the Moodle is considerably satisfactory. Conclusively, it is proven that the Moodle is a successful tool which can be used in the classroom as an effective way of approaching the students to teach English Language. Finally, the suggestion is to use the blended learning method in the ESL classroom in order to get the maximum results.
A Contrastive Study on the Sound Systems of Korean and Sinhala Languages
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Sirisena, Professor Hemantha
This paper examines the phonetic features of the Korean language in comparison with that of Sinhala language. Based on the results of scientific and theoretical analy- sis, Korean researchers have confirmed that there is currently no single classification and transcription of Korean consonants and vowel systems, which have engendered many difficulties for a foreigner to learn the Korean language. The number of Kore- an consonants in different classifications varies from 18 to 21, and there remains var- ious arguments pertaining to the number of vowels in existence. This research study purposes to facilitate Sri Lankan students’ learning of the Korean language and to overcome potential problems they encounter in the process. The main objective of the study is to identify the role and characteristics of each phoneme in both languag- es, by analysing the place of articulation, manner of articulation and voice, in order to examine the similar and dissimilar phonemic features characterised in these two languages. A literature survey was conducted to examine available studies on the phonetic properties of both languages. Furthermore, all accessible and available re- search publications, books and internet resources pertaining to the Korean language, since the introduction of Ŏnmun vernacular script and its evolution up to the modern era, have been examined during the course of the research. Information regarding mixed Sinhala sound system were referred to by research works conducted by local and foreign scholars. Descriptive research was the main methodological framework used in this study. The analysis of the available variety of published research materi- als were used to investigate the evolution of sound systems of both languages and to present a comprehensive description of phonemic inventories. Moreover, this study recommends the use of research results to develop practical exercises in Korean.
Existentialism in Raja Rao’s The Cat and Shakespeare: A Com- parative Analysis of Govindan Nair and Søren Kierkegaard
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Ekanayake, Janitha N. B.
India is a country composed of sophisticated civilisations that have given birth to a number of rich philosophies which have influenced many Indian writers in English. Raja Rao, one of the first three prominent Indian writers who wrote in English, has likewise utilised Indian philosophies in formulating his fiction and characters. The protagonist of Rao’s novel, The Cat and Shakespeare (1965), Govindan Nair epitomises the influence of Sri Ramanujacharya’s philosophy of Vishishta Advaita Vedanta. However, attentive scrutiny upon the afore mentioned character would suggest that Govindan Nair is also an existentialist in practice. Hence, the study attempts to examine the parallelism between Govindan Nair and Existentialism, in order to assess the validity of the hypothesis that similarities could be found between Nair’s ideology and Søren Kierkegaard’s existentialist thoughts. As a qualitative research, the study is based on a thorough textual analysis of the mentioned novel, while a comparative analysis with Kierkegaard’s philosophical thoughts is conducted to formulate the theoretical framework for the research study. The study elucidates that Govindan Nair has comprehended the futility of materialistic life and the attempt to pursue worldly desires, which are the essence of existentialist thought. However, unlike atheistic existentialists such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger, Govindan Nair transforms himself into God in order to seek salvation. Hence, Govindan Nair’s ideology accurately conforms to the thoughts of Søren Kierkegaard, the father of existentialism. Accordingly, the study concludes that there is precise parallelism between Kierkegaard’s existentialist ideas and the philosophical positioning of Govindan Nair.
An Illumination of the Christian Gospel of Luke to Promote the Dignity of Women in the Apparel Industry of Sri Lanka
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Samarasinghe, Sanduni Mahesha
This research study seeks to demonstrate that the illumination of the Gospel of Luke can be utilised to promote the dignity of the women workers in today’s garment industry in Sri Lanka. The formulation of investment zones became a prominent economic development policy in Sri Lanka in 1977. In addition to these invest- ment zones, garment factories were opened at the divisional level, where small and medium-scale garment factories were founded in various Divisional Secretariats throughout the island. Such institutions are also common in the Katana Division- al Secretariat, where women workers from the Katana Divisional Secretariat and other rural areas continue to be attracted to these organizations in large numbers. Accordingly, the main objective of this study is to comparatively examine the sense of dignity that Jesus granted to women in his contemporary Jewish society, and the dignity of the present-day female workers in the garment industry of Sri Lanka. For the purpose of the study, a sample of forty female workers employed in the garment factories within the Katana Divisional Secretariat were selected under the random sampling method. Preliminary data and information were obtained from this sample by distributing questionnaires, conducting interviews and using other observational methods. The data and information obtained were then analysed and presented by utilising descriptive statistical tools. Hence, this study endeavours to explore the manner in which Jesus’ efforts as a true humanitarian noble leader to reform the religious, political, social and cultural structures of his contemporary Jewish society can be likewise applied to promote and secure the dignity of women workers in the garment industry of Sri Lanka.
Image-house in Jethavanarama Monastery and Principles for Image-house of Manju Sri bhaṣitavāstuvidyāśāstra
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Dhammadhaja, Ven.Panawala
The Jethavanarama monastery was commissioned by king Mahasena who ruled Sri Lanka and within the premises ruins of an ancient large image house too is found. There is also a Sanskrit book called Manjusribhastawastuvidyashastra which was written as a guide for building monasteries including all parts such as image house etc. This research investigates into how helpful the above book or another Sanskrit theory books and/ or traditions were in creating the image house of Jethavanarama. The research uses data collected from Sanskrit theory books such as Manjusribhasitavastuvidyashastra and Bimbamana as main sources while study of excavation and conservation reports, library exploration and field studies are also used. This study confirms the use of Sanskrit vastuvidya texts in the construction of image houses in Sri Lanka. The main objective of this study is to socialize the correct knowledge and methodology for creating a modern image house.
The Implementation of Videos as a Tool in Teaching Vocabulary to Elementary English as a Second Language Students.
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Udara, W.K.N.
Language learning becomes a challenging task if the learner does not have adequate knowledge of vocabulary. As the acquisition of vocabulary is a gradual process, learners may require additional time and attention in their vocabulary acquisition. There are different ways in which the learners acquire vocabulary in ESL (English as a Second Language) classrooms. Thus, this study aims to examine the influence of using videos on the development of vocabulary of elementary students in terms of pronunciation, spellings, and meaning. Thirty Grade three students of Olcott Maha Vidyalaya were selected as the research sample of this study, who were randomly divided into two groups as the controlled group and the experimental group. A thirty- item vocabulary test was conducted prior to the experiment as the pre-test. After the completion of the pre-test, the experimental group was taught some vocabulary items under a certain theme using YouTube videos. On the other hand, the controlled group was taught the same vocabulary items by using the traditional teaching methods including meaning practicing, dictation and picture descriptions. This process was continued for four weeks where the students were taught vocabulary items under six themes namely, food, things we use at school, parts of our body, animals, clothes, colors, fruits, and vegetables. A post-test was conducted at the end of the four weeks to examine the development of each group. The results of this study revealed that the participants in the experimental group outperformed those in the controlled group in terms of the development of vocabulary. There was a positive and significant difference in the performance of the group that was exposed to videos materials when compared to the group that was taught by using traditional teaching method. Thus, the findings of this study may help teachers understand the role video materials can play in an ESL classroom.
An Investigation on Effective Methods of Teaching Literature to Learners of German as a Foreign Language
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Wijethilake, S. Peumica
The study of literature plays a vital role in language teaching as well as learning. It is obvious that a good literary text can stimulate the learners to think beyond what they see, to familiarize themselves with the other cultures and make them more interested in the target language. This paper focuses on the methodologies used in teaching German literature and recommends effective methods which can be used during teaching literature to the university students. The sample consisted of 27 undergraduates of German as a Foreign Language at the University of Kelaniya, who follow the three year and four-year Honours Degree programs in German for the Bachelor of Arts Degree. Qualitative data were collected through classroom observations and to collect the quantitative data, the oral presentations, class tests and assignments were evaluated. Secondary data for the study were obtained through printed and electronic resources. The study showed that two methods were successful to improve the literary skills and to awaken the interest among the students towards literature. Interpretation through listening comprehension proved to be successful in teaching poems and songs, whereas to teach the novels and short stories, different methods were combined such as connecting the text to real-life situations and using multiple interpretations. Therefore, it was concluded, that the combination of different methods is the most successful method to teach literature in a foreign language classroom, which also enhances the language skills as well as the literary skills of the students.
An Investigative Study of Female Roles in the Plays Based on Jathaka Stories
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Perera, R. M. Ushan
There are many stage-plays based on Jathaka stories. In the dramatic traditions such as Kolam, Noorthi, and Nadagam, the Jathaka narrator’s ideology remained unchanged. But in the stage drama based on Jathaka stories created after 1950, the creator brings his own ideology. The playwrights break down the traditional view, which is primarily socialized by the native speaker. Furthermore, the new creator brings the action of female characters as a struggle for a free existence. In these post 1950s creations, the woman is given an identity in contexts of love, sex, and decision-making. In a play based on Jathaka stories, the playwright transcends the Jathaka narrator and socializes his ideology. The aim of this research is to find out if the playwright has tried to activate the female characters through a more liberal approach, which has been manipulated by the native narrator with a feminist and socio-biological opinion. Preliminary readings reveal that the role of female characters in Jathaka story-related dramas is more liberal than that of the Jathaka narrator. This research is carried out by studying the plays created in connection with the Jathaka stories and through a critical reading of the Jathaka drama principles.
An Investigative Study of the Spread of Hinduism in the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa Eras
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Amitharathana, Ven. Ulpathagama
Archaeological evidence reveals that Hinduism has more or less Spread during the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa eras. Since Anuradhapura era, Hinduism has spread in the country due to the influence of Tamils and the various political changes that took place in the country. king Pandukabhaya Who succeeded king Panduvasudewa designed the city of Anuradhapura with an urban culture which is recognised as a unique city plan of the Rajarata civilization. In the meantime, Sena Gupttika seized state power after the reign of Suratissa, ruling the Country for about 22 years. However, it was not uncommon to observe the spread of Hinduism under their rule. After king Elara came into power, it was not possible to observe the construction of a large number of Hindu shrines during that period. Hinduism is prevalent in the Abhayagiri Vihara tradition of Sri Lanka which was formed after the Maha vihara tradition. Although the Theravada tradition was initially followed in the Abhayagiri temple complex, they adopted the Mahayana tradition later on due to various reasons. Hindu religious features such as Avalokiteshvara Bodhisatva statues, bronze diamond, can be seen in this monastery complex. This diamond is mentioned in Vedic literature as the weapon of the god Indre, the chief of the gods, and is said to be a symbol of his power and strength. There is also evidence of Hindu influence in the Jethawana and other monastery complexes, built after the Abhayagiri tradition. Almost all the ruins in Polonnaruwa were belong to king Solin king Vijayabahu the great and king Nissankamalla. Art and architecture of Buddhist and Hindu traditions can be distinguished from the ruins of Polonnaruwa. These information indicate that the influence of Hinduism which dates back to Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa eras has spread to the present era.
Lack of Representation of Women in Common Human Liberation: From Henry Jayasena's Play 'Kuveni’
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Darshika, Hewagamage Chamanee
According to Whitney Chadwick, modernist art recognises a woman's intimacy with nature, that is, femininity itself, through its innate mystique, unbridled sexuality, and destructive power. The best example of these qualities is Kuveni's story in Mahawanshaya. In 1962, Henry Jayasena wrote the play Kuveni, which was inspired by this story. In his explanation of the character of Kuveni, the dramatist Henry Jayasena once interpreted her “as an eternal woman of the world". Taking the above remark as its point of departure, this research aims to determine whether Kuveni represents the concept of “an eternal woman in this world” who emblematises women's traditional ideologies. It analyses whether Kuveni has been represented as a woman seeking sympathy; or as a re-interpretation of women's potential and its possibilities. During the time in which the drama was produced, there have been advanced feminist movements in Euro-American countries, the influence of which could not be seen in Sri Lanka. For instance, the ideas popularised by the feminists such as Simone de Beauvoir who examined the role a person's intervention can play in changing the power of history of divided sex and gender, along with Judith Butler’s ideas on the performativity of gender identities, exerted a significant influence upon the contemporary society. In light of those perspectives, Jayasena's Kuveni can be recognised as a reflection of the patriarchal discourses. Thus, this study investigates whether it is possible to socialise the idea of the woman depicted in this play, which is derived from a local cultural story, as the eternal woman. Thus, this study deconstructs the idea of the woman portrayed in Henry Jayasena's 'Kuveni’ in its attempt to achieve this objective of the study. Therefore, it will address the dearth in popular commentary on such cultural trends in Sri Lanka, bringing it into a more dynamic and academic level.
The Language Ideologies and the Macro-context in the Family Language Policy (FLP) of a Sinhala / English Bilingual Family
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Bandara, Kanchana Sanjeevani
The Family Language Policy (FLP) is an extension of Bernard Spolsky’s conceptualisation of language policy which consists of three components: language practices, language ideology and language management. This policy is principally concerned with the decisions taken by parents with regard to their children’s language use. These decisions are determined by internal factors within the family or the micro-context, as well as the external factors that stem from the macro-context. This research has studied an urban English/Sinhala bilingual family to explore the factors emerging from the macro-context, and to identify how such factors mould the language ideologies held by the parents with regard to the children’s language use. By adopting a case-study approach, this research utilised the methods of participatory observation and semi-structured interviews for its data collection, which was analysed using the qualitative content analysis method. The study has identified the admission to popular public schools in Colombo, competition posed by international schools to public schools and the crucial role of English in determining the success in the job market as the factors that stem from the socio-political and socio-economic contexts in the macro-context. Several factors stemming from the sociocultural and sociolinguistic contexts that represent the macro-context also contribute to shape the language ideologies. These factors include the transmission of Sinhala cultural values through English, the lack of English leading to social marginalisation, English as a class marker and the assumed importance of foreign languages. Therefore, the family forms a language policy in response to the language policy implemented at the institutional level. In that venture the FLP adheres to the formal language policy emerging from the macro-context while emphasising the language in which the parents expect their children to gain proficiency.
Lessons from Ancient Practices of Using Buddhist Teachings for Dispute Resolutions in Sri Lanka to Enhance Recent Trends of Alternative Dispute Resolution Methods - A Legal Analysis
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Anuththara, K.K.G.
As mentioned in the Oxford Dictionary (2017), a conflict could mean ‘A serious disagreement or argument, typically a protracted one. A prolonged armed struggle. A state of mind in which a person experiences a clash of opposing feelings or needs. A serious incompatibility between two or more opinions, principles, or interests.’ The usual judicial procedure does not, however, handle the complexity of some of these problems. It requires an independent method with an independent and unbiased knowledgeable third person to resolve these disputes. These processes such as Arbitration, Mediation, Conciliation and Negotiation are recognized as Alternative Dispute Resolution methods (ADR). These methods, while not novel, are similar to some ancient methods which are similar to the current Alternative Dispute methods. The main problem examined in this research is how traditions of Sri Lankan conflict/ dispute resolution methods might be used to improve the legitimacy of present Sri Lankan ADR approaches. The objective of this research is to evaluate the practicalities of those ancient methods and to find out and recommend some novel concepts in to the current ADR methods. This study is based on normative research which analyses primary and secondary sources relevant to the subject. Furthermore, this research would analyse to what extent the ancient methods can be used to develop the efficiency of current ADR methods, most importantly with the principles used in ancient Sri Lanka with reference to Buddhist teachings.
A Linguistic Analysis of Sri Lankan Advanced Level English Students’ Writing in relation to Sri Lankan English Writing and Error Analysis
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Arsakulasuriya, Chandula Medawana; Caldera, Isuri Anuradha
The study incorporates an analysis of writing samples of young Sri Lankan English users (students who study English at A/L s) and semi-structured questionnaires. It aims to assess language errors done by young Sri Lankan English learners in writing, and to determine the feasibility of one-on-one feedback as an error analysis method in the classroom. The researchers identified three prominent sources of language errors in writing samples: negative transfer, overgeneralisation, and poor choice of words. The study shows that teachers work with the students with a common understanding that students who take English as a subject for General Certificate of Education Advanced Level have acquired language skills that of a native English speaker/writer. The findings of the research deconstruct this common understanding as the language errors identified in the content analysis clearly show that they belong to the category of ESL (English as a Second Language) students. The findings of this research do not justify the individual feedback as a successful method that helps students translate their ideas to grammatically correct sentences, since the participants who received feedback and did not receive feedback have made similar language errors. However, this study proves that the students alone cannot polish their writing since the errors identified in this study reflect the students’ knowledge gaps which need to be rectified with the support of a teacher/mentor.
Metacognitive Awareness of Reading Strategies Among ESL Learners: An Online Study Conducted in Higher Education Institutes in Sri Lanka.
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2021) Sudusinghe, WS; Kumara, WGC
Improving reading skills among the students who study English as a second language (ESL) has gained much attention among the instructors. In light of that, the role of Metacognition in enhancing critical thinking skills and autonomous learning has become a topic of central importance. Therefore, this study is focused on assessing the metacognitive awareness of reading strategies among ESL learners in Sri Lankan Universities, through a descriptive cross-sectional study that is conducted among undergraduates who represent different streams of study. Data was gathered through an online questionnaire (in English) which was distributed via social media platforms for two weeks. The questionnaire consisted of a section on demographic information, and a separate section on metacognitive Awareness of Reading Strategies Inventory (MARSI) which consisted of three dimensions as Global Reading Strategies, Problem Solving Strategies and Support Reading Strategies. The researchers have obtained the informed written consent from their participants prior to the data analysis. The data gathered was analysed using SPSS 23.0, including the descriptive statistics, independent sample t-test and Turkey Post hoc test on one-way ANOVA. The researchers have observed that the mean (±SD) age of the participants was 21.54 (±1.79) years. Most of them were female students (62.9%; n=83) and were undergraduates in the stream of law (44.7 %; n=59). When considering the participants' self-evaluation, most of them were recognised as average readers (51.5%; n=68). There was a statistically significant mean difference among the streams in awareness on Global Reading Strategies (p = 0.000), awareness on Problem Solving Strategies (p = 0.000), and awareness on Support Reading Strategies (p = 0.000. According to study findings, it can be concluded that, the mean values of the GRS, PSS and SRS were at a level of medium. Therefore, it is important to make the necessary interventions to improve the reading skills of the undergraduates.
Musical Tendencies of the Film “ABHA”
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Karunarathne, A. M. S.
The primary purpose of this study is to identify the musical tendencies of the film “Abha”, which was produced in 2008, depicting the historical narrative of king Pandukabhaya. Since the screening of “Broken Promise” (“Kadavunu Poronduwa”) in 1947, Sri Lankan film industry has expanded across various fields. The trend of making imitation films of India or any other country has continued to date within the film industry of Sri Lanka. Among such trends, films based on a historical narrative can be identified as another major trend in filmmaking that has become popular in the country. A trend of producing historical fiction films was obviously seen after the year 2008, a trend that dates back to the film "Ashokamala" (1947) which was based on the story of Saliya Ashokamala. It can be argued that, researchers and critics of film music have not paid adequate attention to the musical tendencies of historical films. The film "Aba", music directed by Mr. Nadeeka Guruge, depicts the reign of king Pandukabhaya. Singing in the form of Andaheraya and the use of musical techniques such as body music, which can be defined as singing by blowing or beating on various parts of the body such as the face, chest, and mouth, reveal the musical tendencies that existed during the reign of Pandukabhaya. In its data collection, this study includes fieldwork with literary information, discussions with subject matter experts and interviews. The findings of this research confirmed that, a variety of musical instruments made of various pieces of wood and metal have been used in the movie to provide a more nuanced representation of the musical background of the contemporary society.
An Overview on the Agreement Between Greece and Egypt on the Delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone – 2020: A Reminiscence of the Pre-Alexandrian Contacts Between Europe and Africa
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Sathsara Perera, C.T.S.
One of the most discussed recent contracts in international foreign affairs is the agreement between Greece and Egypt on the delimitation of the Exclusive Economic Zone in the East Mediterranean Sea. On the 7th of August 2020, they signed the agreement in Cairo which sets the sea boundaries between the two countries. The agreement demarcates an exclusive drilling right for gas and oil, two major energy resources in the Mediterranean Sea. This recent agreement is reminiscent of commerce, diplomatic and political contacts that prevailed between ancient Greece and Egypt. The relationships between Greece and Egypt can be traced back to the 2nd millennium BCE. Unearthed archaeological evidence supports the ancient contacts, specifically of trade contacts between the two countries, that will be discussed in the paper, including references to historical records. Naukratis, the Greek port in Egyptian territory at the mouth of Nile was a major trade port inhabited by selective Greek communities. Other trading ports such as Canopus and Heracleion also functioned as major ports linking ancient Greece and Egypt for a considerable period of time. Furthermore, there are ancient records on how Egypt sends grain supply to Greek cities and functioned as the main grain supplier to Athens. On the other hand, evidence proves that Greece had sent mercenaries to Egypt in times of need. Nevertheless, ancient Egypt only had allied with selected Greek states depending on the necessities. The recent agreement signed by Greece and Egypt in 2020 will be examined as a present case study to reassess how the two countries maintained mutually beneficial long-term contacts. The objective of the research is to illustrate how and why, Greece and Egypt maintained continuous relations. Further, it is evident that maritime commerce has played an important role for continuation of foreign relations between Greece and Egypt throughout the centuries.
The Potential Efficacy of the Practice of the Theravada Concept Asubha (Repulsiveness) in Curbing Irrational Racism in the Buddhist Community
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Ananda, Ven. Maharagama
The present research chiefly examines the nature of the Theravada concept asubha thereby, seeking potential efficacy in the practice of ‘Contemplating Repulsiveness’ to curb irrational racism in the Buddhist community. Although numerous analogous terms have more or less covered the meaning of the concept asubha, the ‘deterrent effect’of the same in combatting the two hindrances viz. ‘the false view of individuality’ (sakkāya-diṭṭhi) and ‘the pride’ (māna or ahaṅkāra) have been highlighted in this study. The prevalent irrational racism in today’s world has caused substantial harm to humanity at large. The aim of the researcher, therefore, is to examine the possibilities of using the ‘repulsive nature’ of asubha to transform irrational racist thoughts of the average Buddhist into sheer harmless notions of ethnicity in particular. Factually, the practice of asubha is a multifaceted teaching which demands several levels of ‘successive development’ in the mind of the Buddhist to reach complete realisation. The Visuddhimagga enumerates the said levels of developments as Universal Repulsiveness (samasarīra-paṭikkūlatā), Characteristic Repulsiveness (asubha- lakkhaṇaṃ) and Actual Repulsiveness (paṭikkūla-bhāva), respectively. Accordingly, this study argues that the afore mentioned understanding of universal repulsiveness could possibly ignite a sound ‘initial deterrent effect’ within the average Buddhist against his/her own natural inclination to indulge in irrational racism. At this juncture, ‘the false view of individuality’ (sakkāya-diṭṭhi) and its accompanying ‘pride’ (māna or ahaṅkāra) could be suppressed to a considerable extent. Although, the characteristic repulsiveness is well present in a living body just as in a dead body, the very realisation of the same is hindered by the deep-rooted ignorance (moha) and other various embellishments which shun the reality from surfacing. Hence, the study further contends that the development of understanding of the Buddhist of ‘Actual Repulsiveness’ of his/her own body promotes equality among the Buddhist community and such an understanding is pregnant with a potential efficacy to deter the Buddhist from indulging in irrational racism.
Recontextualizing Form Of Dance In Polonnaruwa Era
(Faculty of Humanities University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka., 2021) Gunarathna, Dulanga
Polonnaruwa era, Dance, Dassiattam, Dance is an anthropological aspect in all cultures in the world and it has been pop- ular in the developed or undeveloped human societies all over the world. Historical sources emphasize that Sri Lankans had a very well-developed art of dance and we find evidence from Anuradhapura era to Kandyan era. As there has not been any study on this theme, it is impossible to have a comprehensive knowledge on the art of dance during the Polonnaruwa period, from 1017 – 1215. It is believed that dance was a ritualistic feature of this period and the style is similar to that of South Indian devadasi dance. Devadasis were dancing girls who used to be addressed as servants of God and they were the symbols of communicating religious aspects in India. According to historical sources of Polonnaruwa era, there were dancing girls (Devadasis) who danced as a ritualistic feature. There are many archeological sourc- es depicting dassiattam style which emphasizes the dasiattam of the above era. The main objective of this research is to recontextualize the dance form which was estab- lished in the Polonnaruwa period as a cultural phenomenon which interrelates with cultural aspects. Therefore, this research uses an anthropological methodology by using comparative framework where the basic concepts of choreography techniques su