· Brockington, J.L., Righteous Rama: The Evolution of an Epic, Oxford University Press, Delhi, 1984.
This is an essential critical account of the Epic focusing on a contextualization of the work. That is, it charts, through the use of linguistic evidence, the many historical layers of the Ramayana. He does this by juxtaposing variations in the Sanskrit from classical to more modern usages. In addition, there is a useful bibliography.
· Chackalackal, Sajo Ramayana and the Indian Ideal: A Search into the Prevailing Humanistic Values of the Ramayana of Valmiki, Dharmaram Publication, Bangalore, 1992.
This text is a study of the great Indian Epic from an ethical perspective. It describes the classical Hindu life as it is portrayed in the Epic and through an analysis of the four Purusharthas, the author unveils the humanistic ethos of the text.
· Goldman, Robert, The Ramayana of Valmiki: An Epic of Ancient India, Princeton University Press, Price, 1991.
This work is an on-going translation of the epic. Goldman and Sally Sutherland have collaborated and provided not only a new translation, but introductory comments and annotations.
· Hiltebietel, Alf, "Religious Studies and the Indian Epic Texts, " in Religious Studies Review, 21:26-32 Jan. 1995.
This essay is a discussion of India's two great Epics. The essay primarily discusses the debate over discrepancies in the Sanskritic and Vernacular tradition. It contrasts Goldman's view of Sanskrit superiority with Paula Richmond's view that all representations of the Epics, whether Sanskrit or Vernacular, should be of equal worth. There is also a useful bibliography at the end of the essay.