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MONI MEKHALA AND REAM EYSO. Edited by Prumsodun Ok. Self-published, 2013. xi + 89 pp. Paper, $25.00.
The story of Moni Mekhala, the Cambodian goddess of the seas, and Ream Eyso, the storm demon, appears frequently in ritual and theatrical Cambodian classical dances (lakhaon). Jealous of a crystal ball bestowed on Moni Mekhala by their master teacher, Ream Eyso determines to have it at any cost, including the goddess's life. Upon hearing his threats, Moni Mekhala reacts with strength and compassion rather than fear, and does not cede to the demon's threats but rather evades him. As she sends her crystal ball flying into the air, it produces flashes of lightning that temporarily blind Ream Eyso and provide cover for the goddess to take flight and escape into the sky. The demon sends his axe chasing after the crystal ball, producing booming thunder. Together they produce nourishing rain, even as Ream Eyso continues to pursue Moni Mekhala, and she continues her flight. Commonly danced at the New Year's buong suong (propitiation) ritual that marks the beginning of the spring planting cycle, the dance-drama enacts the source of agricultural fertility. The myth, and its many danced versions, forms the centerpiece of the book, concentrating in it ideas of tradition and contemporaneity within Cambodian classical dance.
More than this, however, Moni Mekhala and Ream Eyso argues that the myth, centered as it is on an independent woman who uses her intelligence and skills to mount a nonviolent resistance, has significant implications for gender roles in life and dance. It is perhaps no accident that an independent female character who models strength and quick thinking is also the most demanding female role in Cambodian classical dance. In editor Prumsodun Ok's retelling of the myth, the typical title, Ream Eyso and Moni Mekhala, is inverted, indicating that this volume is concerned with foregrounding the role of women in Cambodian mythology, classical dance, and contemporary society. Additionally, Ok's version includes plot variations that emphasize Moni Mekhala's considered and skilled actions. In this version,...