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Questions and Answers
What are the three literary anthologies from the Sangam period?
What are the three literary anthologies from the Sangam period?
Agananuru, Purananuru, and Agaval
Which collection consists of poems praising Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Murugan?
Which collection consists of poems praising Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Murugan?
Nalayira Divya Prabhanda
What is Perum Puranam?
What is Perum Puranam?
A collection of stories about the lives of Jain saints written in Tamil verse form.
During which period did the Sangam literature originate?
During which period did the Sangam literature originate?
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What aspects of Hinduism were incorporated into Tamil literature?
What aspects of Hinduism were incorporated into Tamil literature?
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What was the focus of the early Tamil literary works?
What was the focus of the early Tamil literary works?
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Who is the author of the romantic epic Silappadhikaram?
Who is the author of the romantic epic Silappadhikaram?
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What are the main themes explored in the epic Manimekalai?
What are the main themes explored in the epic Manimekalai?
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Who wrote the Tamil grammar book Akkamputhurar Nootru?
Who wrote the Tamil grammar book Akkamputhurar Nootru?
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Which poet and playwright extensively wrote on social justice and human rights?
Which poet and playwright extensively wrote on social justice and human rights?
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What kind of themes does the contemporary author Perumal Murugan's works explore?
What kind of themes does the contemporary author Perumal Murugan's works explore?
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What are some initiatives supported by the Tamil Nadu government to promote Tamil literature?
What are some initiatives supported by the Tamil Nadu government to promote Tamil literature?
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Study Notes
Tamil Literature
The Tamil language is one of the oldest classical languages in India and holds a significant place in South Indian culture. It has a history spanning over two millennia, with its earliest roots dating back to the Sangam period between 500 BCE and 2 CE. This section will discuss the evolution of Tamil literature from ancient times to the present day.
Ancient Tamil Literature
Early History
The earliest known examples of Tamil literature come from the Sangam period, which refers to three literary anthologies—the Agananuru, Purananuru, and Agaval—and the ten Ettuttogai ("eight anthologies"). These works were composed by poets who lived during this era. One notable aspect of these early works is their focus on social life in the region, including relationships, love, and warfare.
Impact of Hinduism
With the advent of Hinduism, Tamil literature began to incorporate elements of Hindu mythology, philosophy, and cosmology into its narratives. One example is the Nalayira Divya Prabhanda ("Four Thousand Divine Verses"), which consists of poems praising Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, and Murugan, among others.
Jain Influence
Jainism also had an impact on Tamil literature, particularly through works that promoted nonviolence, compassion, and spiritual growth. For instance, Perum Puranam is a collection of stories about the lives of Jain saints written in Tamil verse form.
Medieval Period
During the medieval period, Tamil literature saw the emergence of several genres, such as epics, dramas, and treatises on various subjects. Some notable works from this time include:
- Silappadhikaram ("An Account of Ankles"): A romantic epic that tells the story of Kovalan and Madhavi, set against the backdrop of the Chola kingdom.
- Manimekalai: Another epic poem that explores themes of love, greed, destiny, and the supernatural.
- Akkamputhurar Nootru, a Tamil grammar book written by Toluvetitar, a woman scholar.
Modern Tamil Literature
In modern times, Tamil literature has continued to evolve and adapt to contemporary issues. Notable authors from this period include:
- Bharathidasan: A poet, playwright, and revolutionary figure who wrote extensively on social justice, human rights, and the struggles of the working class.
- Perumal Murugan: A contemporary author whose works often explore themes of identity, relationships, and cultural heritage.
Today, there are numerous publishing houses and literary festivals dedicated to promoting Tamil literature both within India and internationally. The Tamil Nadu government also supports various initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting Tamil literature.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the evolution of Tamil literature from ancient times to modern days, exploring its themes, genres, and notable authors. Learn about the influence of Hinduism, the impact of Jainism, and the development of literary works in Tamil Nadu.
