Sangam Era: Literature

Sangam Era: Literature

  • Sangam literature is secular in nature. It  is classified into two main categories: Akam and Puram.

Akam Literature

  • The subjects of love, one’s own feelings, and inner experiences are all covered in Akam poetry.
  • It frequently focuses on romantic relationships, including its joys, sufferings, and difficulties.
  • Rich imagery is used in the poems to illustrate natural locations, landscapes, and emotions.
  • Akam poetry is thought to be more empathetic and expressive of personal feelings.

Puram Literature

  • It commemorates heroic acts, battles, and the accomplishments of monarchs and soldiers. 
  • Puram poems illuminate the political and social dynamics of the moment. This form of poetry is more objective and addresses social and political issues.

Important Sangam Literature

Thirukkural
  • Valluvar, often known as Thiruvalluvar in full, is usually credited with writing the Thirukkural.
  • It is a classic Tamil language text consisting of 1,330 short couplets of seven words each, or kurals.
  • It emphasises honesty, self-control, thankfulness, hospitality, kindness, wifely goodness, duty, and giving.
Tolkappiyam
  • The grammar and poetics of Tamil literature are discussed in this.
  • It contains instructions for writing poems, maintaining language purity, and constructing verses.
Silappatikaram
  • Attributed to Ilango Adigal
  • It tells the story of Kovalan and Kannagi and is considered a masterpiece of Tamil literature.
Manimekalai
  • It was written by Sattanar
  • Manimekalai, a young woman who becomes a Buddhist nun, is the focus of the story.
  • It delves into subjects such as virtue, compassion, and the spiritual path.
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