EDUZONE: International Peer Reviewed/Refereed Multidisciplinary Journal (EIPRMJ), ISSN: 2319-5045

Volume 13, Issue 1, January-June, 2024, Available online at: www.eduzonejournal.com

Tamil Sangam Literature: A Journey through History,

Culture, and Literary Brilliance
N. R. Gopal
Associate Professor, Dept. of English, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala, India

ABSTRACT

The Sangam period, which lasted from 300 BCE to 300 CE, saw a flourishing of Tamil literature, reflecting the
Tamil people's rich cultural legacy. This article examines the historical significance, cultural achievements,
themes, genres, and notable worksof Tamil Sangam literature. It dives into the history of Tamil literature,
tracing its roots to ancient times and emphasizing its link to the Sangam period. It looks at the socio-political
environment of the era, including the presence of the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms and the role that
royal patronage played in promoting literary growth. The themes and genres of Sangam literature, such as love,
war, nature, ethics, and classification into Akam and Puram, are examined, showcasing the diversity and depth
of literary works. Notable works and authors, including “Silappatikaram”, “Manimekalai”, Thiruvalluvar,
Kapilar, and Avvaiyar, are conversed, highlighting their contributions to Tamil literature and their lasting
influence. The article also briefly surveysthe Sangam period's language and literary style, describing the
evolution of the Tamil language and poetic devices and conventions employed in the literature. It concludes by
emphasizing the significance of Tamil Sangam literature in preserving the cultural and literary heritage of
Tamil people and its enduring impact on Tamil language literature identity.It also encourages further
exploration and study of this rich heritage.

Keywords: Tamil Identity, Tamil Sangam Literature, Literary Heritage, Themes of Sangam Literature

INTRODUCTION

Tamil Sangam literature holds profound historical significance, offering valuable insights into ancient Tamil society
and its cultural achievements. The Sangam period, spanning from 300 BCE to 300 CE, was a remarkable era of
intellectual and artistic accomplishments in Tamil history. It presents a lively depiction of the social, cultural, and
political atmosphere of the time, shedding light on the values and way of life of the ancient Tamils.The period is
brought to light through remnants of ancient cities, trade routes, and literary references(EnrouteI). As a historical
record, it unveils the dynasties, kingdoms, and political dynamics that shaped Tamil society. With its linguistic and
literary brilliance, Sangam literature showcases the poetic devices and expressive conventions of the Tamil people. The
themes explored in these works resonate universally, reflecting timeless human experiences. Moreover, Tamil Sangam
literature nurtures Tamil identity, acting as a cultural treasure that connects present-day Tamil Nadu to its ancient
heritage. By preserving and cherishing these literary treasures, the legacy of the Tamil people endures for future
generations.Sangam literature is a significant part of India's cultural heritage, and its influence can still be seen in
modern Indian and Tamil literature and culture(Ghosh).

During the Sangam period, Tamil literature flourished through the establishment of literary academies known as
Sangams. These literary works are believed to have been composed by different Tamil poets and were compiled and
preserved by the Tamil Sangam, an ancient Tamil assembly of scholars and poets(Ghosh).These Sangams served as
platforms for poets, scholars, and intellectuals to gather, exchange ideas, and produce exceptional works of literature.

The Sangams were a series of literary gatherings that took place in the ancient Tamil city of Madurai. The first Sangam
is said to have been founded by the Pandya king Nedunchezhiyan in the 3rd century BCE. The second Sangam
wasestablished by the Chola king Karikalan in the 2nd century BCE. The third Sangam is said to have been founded by
the Chera king Senguttuvan in the 1st century C.E.The Sangam literary works record the various values and morals in
the Tamil Society, the practices and beliefs(Shrikumar).

The Sangam literature is categorized into two groups: the Pattuppattu, which is an anthology of ten long poems, and
the Ettuttokai, which is a collection of eight anthologies consisting of shorter poems(Ghosh).The wide variety of
literary styles and themes covered in their works provide evidence of the cultural achievements of the Tamil people
throughout the Sangam period. The Sangam literature mostly addresses secular subjects like politics and warfare,
giving readers a glimpse into daily life in Tamilakam at the time these works were written. Although there is poetry
about the gods in the Paripatal, Sangam literature also contains religious themes. The devotional literature of the

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EDUZONE: International Peer Reviewed/Refereed Multidisciplinary Journal (EIPRMJ), ISSN: 2319-5045
Volume 13, Issue 1, January-June, 2024, Available online at: www.eduzonejournal.com

Sangam era covers a wide variety of themes, including morality, spirituality, love, and conflict. The religious and
philosophical poetry is especially significant since it displays the authors' intense dedication and spiritual desire.

The Purananuruand the Tirukkural are two of the most important works of Tamil literature. They were both written
during the Sangam period, considered the golden age of Tamil culture. The Purananuru is a collection of 700 poems
that celebrate the heroes and heroines of ancient Tamil Nadu. The poems are divided into two main sections: akam
poems, which deal with themes of love, marriage, and family life; and puram poems, which deal with themes of war,
politics, and kingship. The Tirukkural is a collection of 1330 couplets coveringethics, morality, governance, and love.

The Tirukkural is considered to be one of the greatest works of Tamil literature, and it has been translated into many
languages. The Purananuru and the Tirukkural are both important sources of information about the history, culture, and
society of ancient Tamil Nadu. They also provide insights into the values and ideals that the Tamil people cherished.

The Purananuruand the Tirukkural are still studied and admired by Tamil people worldwide.The language used in
Sangam literature is referred to as Old Tamil, and it had a different grammar and vocabulary compared to modern
Tamil(Ghosh).

Here are some of the key themes that are explored in the Purananuru(Zvelebil) and the Tirukkural(Iyengar):

 Heroism: The Purananuru celebrates the heroes and heroines of ancient Tamil Nadu. The poems extol the virtues
of courage, strength, and leadership.
 Love: The Purananuru and the Tirukkural both deal with the theme of love. The poems explore the beauty and
complexity of human relationships.
 Marriage: The Purananuru and the Tirukkural both deal with the institution of marriage. The poems emphasize
the importance of love, respect, and fidelity in marriage.
 Family: The Purananuru and the Tirukkural both emphasize the importance of family. The poems show how
family members should support and care for each other.
 War: The Purananuru and the Tirukkural both deal with war. The poems show the terrible cost of war and the
importance of peace.
 Governance: The Tirukkural deals with the subject of governance. The poem emphasizes the importance of
justice, equality, and good leadership.
 Ethics: The Tirukkural deals with a wide range of ethical issues. The poem emphasizes the importance of honesty,
integrity, and compassion.
 Morality: The Tirukkural deals with a wide range of moral issues. The poem emphasizes the importance of self-
control, discipline, and virtue.

The cultural and literary achievements of the Tamil people during the Sangam period continue to inspire and influence
Tamil society and literature to this day. Moreover, the rich heritage of Sangam literature is a testament to the
intellectual, artistic, and philosophical depth of the Tamil people, leaving an indelible mark on Tamil culture and
identity.

Origins and Historical Context

The Sangam period was characterized by three prominent Tamil kingdoms: the Chera, Chola, and
Pandya(Krishnaswami). These kingdoms engaged in political rivalries and alliances, creating a vibrant cultural
atmosphere that nurtured artistic and literary expression.The kings of the Chera, Chola, and Pandya kingdoms played a
pivotal role in supporting Tamil literature. They patronized poets and scholars, providing them with the necessary
resources and environment to flourish. Their patronage ensured the preservation and promotion of Tamil literary
works.The Sangams, as literary academies, played a crucial role in shaping Tamil literature during the Sangam period.

They provided a platform for poets and scholars to present their works and engage in literary discussions. The Sangams
played a significant role in evaluating and recognizing exceptional literary works, contributing to the overall
development of Tamil literature. Thus, Sangam literature is one of the main texts used to trace the early history of the
ancient Tamils. The ancient Sangam poetry contains numerous references to monarchs, princes, and poets, some of
whose existence has been supported by archaeological findings.

Themes and Genres of Sangam Literature

Sangam literature encompasses diverse themes, offering a glimpse into the multifaceted aspects of life during the
Sangam period. The poems and texts explore various themes that resonate with universal human experiences. Love,
war, nature, and ethics are prominent themes in Sangam literature.Sangam literature is classified into two main

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EDUZONE: International Peer Reviewed/Refereed Multidisciplinary Journal (EIPRMJ), ISSN: 2319-5045
Volume 13, Issue 1, January-June, 2024, Available online at: www.eduzonejournal.com

categories: Akam and Puram. Akam, meaning "inner" in Tamil, focuses on the emotions, experiences, and subjective
aspects of human life. It delves into personal relationships, love, and the inner world of individuals. Puram, meaning
"outer" in Tamil, deals with the external world, including society, politics, and heroic deeds. It is divided into two main
genres: akam (inner) and puram (outer).

Akam poetry is about love, both romantic and erotic. It is further divided into five subgenres, each of which is
associated with a different landscape:

 Kurinji is the mountainous region associated with the early stages of love when the lovers are separated.
 Mullai is the forest region associated with the development of love when lovers meet in secret.
 Marutham is the agricultural region associated with the maturity of love when the lovers are married and have
children.
 Neithal is the coastal region associated with the decline of love when the lovers are separated by death or other
circumstances.
 Paalai is the desert region associated with the end of love when the lovers are completely separated.

Puram poetry is about war, politics, and other aspects of public life. It is further divided into two subgenres:

 Venba is about the exploits of kings and warriors.

 Ezhuththuthogai is about the praise of kings and their deeds.

Summarizing it according to The Daily Star,

Just as Panini (400 B.C.) froze Sanskrit for all times with his treatise on its grammar - in order that refined speech
should eternally be the hallmark of Sanskrit - so too there were rules laid down ('codified' is the proper term here) for
ancient Tamil poetry in the Tolkappiyam. Simply put, it divided all Tamil poetry into akam and puram. Akam dealt
with 'that which is inside' or 'the inner world' - in other words, love poems, written in highly structured forms. Puram's
themes were on 'the outer world', and dealt with public life, with war, death, and the glory of kings. These poems laid
the foundation for Tamil poetry, a tradition so strong that it was only from the nineteenth century onward that poets
began to struggle to break, as the translators say, "free (from) traditional and prescribed forms of prosody… (and)
speak with new voices and address a wide audience in the modern political and social world."(Ahmed)

Notable Works and Authors

Sangam literature encompasses many themes, from love and war to nature and ethics. It is classified into the Akam and
Puram categories, with genres like love poems, heroic poetry, and didactic texts. These diverse themes and genres
reflect the rich tapestry of human experiences and offer valuable insights into the cultural and social fabric of the
Sangam period.The Sangam period gave birth to several notable works with immense literary and cultural significance.
Two prominent works from this period are "Silappatikaram" and "Manimekalai."

 "Silappatikaram," composed by Ilango Adigal, is an epic poem that tells the tale of the virtuous Kannagi and her
tragic journey. It explores themes of love, justice, and the consequences of societal injustices. This epic is a
masterpiece of narrative storytelling, captivating readers with its vivid descriptions, complex characters, and moral
dilemmas.
 "Manimekalai," written by the poet Seethalai Saathanar, is an epic that follows the life of the protagonist,
Manimekalai, as she navigates through the complexities of desire, spirituality, and enlightenment. This work
delves into philosophical and moral themes while presenting a rich tapestry of Tamil culture and religious beliefs.

Renowned poets and authors have made significant contributions to Sangam literature, shaping its legacy and
influencing subsequent Tamil literary traditions.

 Thiruvalluvar, an esteemed poet, philosopher, and author of the celebrated work "Tirukkural," is considered a
literary genius. "Tirukkural" is a didactic text encompassing 1,330 couplets, offering profound insights into ethics,
morality, and the principles of righteous living. Thiruvalluvar's work continues to be revered for its wisdom and
universal appeal.
 Kapilar, a highly regarded poet of the Sangam period, is known for his compositions in the Purananuru, a
collection of poetry that glorifies valor, heroism, and the Tamil way of life. Kapilar's poems reflect the social,
political, and cultural aspects of the time, portraying the valor and deeds of warriors while shedding light on the
lives of the common people.
 Avvaiyar, a prominent female poet and sage, made invaluable contributions to Sangam literature. Her poems,
characterized by their simplicity and profound insights, cover a wide range of subjects, including ethics, morality,
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EDUZONE: International Peer Reviewed/Refereed Multidisciplinary Journal (EIPRMJ), ISSN: 2319-5045
Volume 13, Issue 1, January-June, 2024, Available online at: www.eduzonejournal.com

and the importance of education. Avvaiyar's verses continue to inspire and guide generations, emphasizing the
values of kindness, wisdom, and compassion.

Language and Literary Style

The Tamil language during the Sangam period and its evolution over time showcased a rich linguistic heritage. Tamil,
belonging to the Dravidian language family, has a history dating back thousands of years. During the Sangam period,
Tamil flourished as a language with unique grammar, vocabulary, and literary conventions. The language evolved
organically, absorbing influences from various cultural interactions, but maintained its distinct identity.Over time, the
Tamil language underwent changes and transformations while retaining its core structure. Different stages of the
language, such as Old Tamil, Middle Tamil, and Modern Tamil, emerged as Tamil literature evolved. These stages
witnessed vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation shifts, reflecting the changing cultural and historical contexts.

Despite these changes, the essence of the Tamil language remained intact, and it continues to be spoken and written in
various forms today. From a linguistic perspective, Tamil Sangam literature showcases the evolution and development
of the Tamil language over time. It demonstrates the richness of the language, its expressive capabilities, and its ability
to adapt to changing literary and cultural contexts. The literary techniques and conventions employed in Sangam
literature have shaped the trajectory of Tamil literary tradition, influencing subsequent works and providing a
foundation for poetic expression.

Sangam literature is renowned for its exquisite poetic devices and conventions that enhance the beauty and impact of
the verses. Utilizing various literary techniques during the Sangam period, poets incorporated elements such as
alliteration, metaphor, and symbolism. Alliteration, in particular, added a touch of musicality and rhythm to their
verses, resulting in an enchanting effect that captivated readers. Metaphors served a different purpose – they were
employed not only to evoke vivid imagery but also to convey complex emotions in ways that were imaginative and
striking. By utilizing symbols and allegory, Sangam poets could delve into deeper layers of meaning and bridge the gap
between the concrete world of objects and intangible abstract concepts. It can be said:“Careful use of rhetoric and its
underlying themes and conventions make for great economy in descriptive writing. In contrast to the weightiness of the
theoretical interpretation, the poems reveal a subtle freedom of movementin the dense matrix of allusions and in the art
of bending the conventions by mixing the themes to test the shrewdness of the cultivated reader” (Gros).

These poetic devices and conventions went beyond mere aesthetics; they served as powerful tools for storytelling,
expressing emotions, as well as conveying philosophical and moral concepts. With their profound insights encapsulated
within each carefully crafted verse or stanza, these techniques added depth, beauty, and tremendous literary value to the
works produced during this time period. Ultimately,this led to Sangam literature being hailed as a remarkable testament
to the mastery of language and poetic craftsmanship achieved by those who embarked upon this magnificent artistic
endeavor.

Preservation and Impact of Sangam Literature

Sangam literature was initially transmitted orally, but as the importance of preserving these literary treasures became
evident, efforts were made to transcribe the works into written manuscripts. The manuscripts were painstakingly copied
by scribes onto palm leaves or other materials, ensuring their longevity and wider accessibility. These manuscripts
were carefully preserved in monastic libraries, temples, and royal collections, safeguarding the literary heritage of
Tamil Sangam literature. Sangam literature served as a foundation and an enduring source of inspiration for later
generations of Tamil poets and writers. Its themes, motifs, and poetic techniques influenced the development of Tamil
poetry and prose across different eras. Religious texts in Tamil, such as the Tirukkural, drew inspiration from the
ethical and moral teachings found in Sangam literature. The Tirukkural, a didactic work from the post-Sangam period,
reflects the wisdom and values encapsulated in Sangam literature. It continues to be regarded as a seminal work on
ethics and a guiding text for ethical conduct. Sangam literature also played a significant role in shaping the cultural
practices and customs of Tamil society. It provided narratives, myths, and legends that became an integral part of Tamil
cultural identity. Festivals, rituals, and storytelling traditions drew from the rich tapestry of Sangam literature, infusing
Tamil culture with its literary legacy.

CONCLUSION

Sangam literature intimates usabout the ancient Tamil society, culture, and language. It has had a lasting influence on
Tamil literature, language, and identity. Exploring and studying Sangam literature is crucial for comprehensively
understanding Tamil culture and literary tradition. It provides a window into ancient Tamil society, offering valuable
insights into their customs, traditions, and way of life. The literary works of the Sangam period serve as a repository of
Tamil culture, capturing the essence of their beliefs, values, and artistic expressions. The poetic devices, linguistic

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Volume 13, Issue 1, January-June, 2024, Available online at: www.eduzonejournal.com

nuances, and literary conventions employed in Sangam literature have shaped the Tamil language, contributing to its
richness and expressive power. The literary themes and narratives of Sangam literature have inspired subsequent Tamil
literary works, providing a foundation for developing Tamil literature across different epochs. Finally, Tamil Sangam
literature displays the artistic and intellectual achievements of the Tamil people, reinforcing their sense of identity and
cultural pride.

REFERENCES

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detail-97372.
[2]. EnrouteI. “What Does Vaigai Valley Tell Us About Sangam Era?” Enroute Indian History, 29 Dec. 2023,
enrouteindianhistory.com/what-does-vaigai-valley-tell-us-about-sangam-era.
[3]. Ghosh, Pramit. Sangam Literature: Lost Treasure Trove of Ancient Tamil and Indian Literature and All Should
Know. 7 Apr. 2023, www.linkedin.com/pulse/sangam-literature-lost-treasure-trove-ancient-tamil-indian-ghosh.
[4]. Gros, Francois. “Poetry in a Landscape: A World of Sangam” The UNESCO Courier XXXVII, 3, March
1984, p.32-33.https://unesdoc.unesco.org/ark:/48223/pf0000074678
[5]. Iyengar, S. H. Tirukkural: With English Translation and Commentary. Penguin Books, 1994.
[6]. Krishnaswami, A. A History of Tamil Nadu: Ancient and Medieval Periods. Macmillan India, 1989.
[7]. Shrikumar, A. “A Walk Through the Sangam Age.” The Hindu, 23 Mar. 2016,
www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/society/a-walk-through-the-sangam-age/article8389533.ece.
[8]. Zvelebil, Kamil V. Sangam Literature. BRILL, 2014.

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