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Sangam Texts and Society

The Sangam texts refer to a collection of ancient Tamil literature that dates back to the Sangam period in South India, which is estimated to have lasted from around 300 BCE to 300 CE. These texts provide valuable insights into the social, cultural, and economic aspects of ancient Tamil society. Here's an overview of the Sangam texts and their relevance to society:

1. Tolkappiyam: Tolkappiyam is one of the oldest surviving works of Tamil literature and serves as a foundational text on grammar and poetics. It provides insights into the linguistic and literary conventions of the time. It also discusses the social hierarchy and division of society into different occupational groups.

2. Ettuthogai: The Ettuthogai, meaning "Eight Anthologies," is a collection of poems composed by various poets of the Sangam period. These poems cover a wide range of themes, including love, war, nature, and ethics. They provide glimpses into the everyday lives, emotions, and social customs of ancient Tamil society.

3. Pattupattu: The Pattupattu, meaning "Ten Idylls," is a collection of ten long narrative poems that depict the lives and experiences of heroes, heroines, and rulers. These poems provide insights into the political, social, and cultural milieu of the time, including the relationships between rulers, nobles, and commoners.

4. Pathinen Keezhkanakku: Pathinen Keezhkanakku, also known as the "Eighteen Lower Collections," is a collection of eighteen minor works that cover various themes. These texts shed light on aspects such as agriculture, trade, ethics, and social practices, giving us a glimpse into the economic and moral values of the society.

The Sangam texts provide valuable information about the social structure of ancient Tamil society. They reveal the existence of a well-defined social hierarchy with distinct classes and occupations. The society was stratified into different categories such as kings, chieftains, warriors, merchants, farmers, and laborers. The texts also reflect the prominence given to agriculture and trade, highlighting the economic activities and importance of commerce in the society.

Additionally, the Sangam texts depict a society with elaborate courtly customs, sophisticated literary traditions, and an appreciation for art and aesthetics. They also provide insights into the role of women, their social status, and their contributions to various aspects of society, including poetry and administration.

Overall, the Sangam texts are invaluable resources for understanding the social, cultural, and economic dynamics of ancient Tamil society. They offer a glimpse into the lives of people, their beliefs, values, and the intricate tapestry of a vibrant civilization that thrived in South India during the Sangam period.


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