Question

There are many literary sources to reconstruct the history of the Sangam age. In this context explain the literary importance of Tirukurral.

Answer 1

Tirukurral: It was written by Tiruvalluvar. It consists of 1330 couplets, dealing with three main topics namely - Aram (Dharma), Porul (Artha), and Inbam (Kama). It is considered a sacred book by the Tamils and has been translated into many Indian and European languages.

Answer 2

Tirukkural – Literary Importance in Reconstructing the Sangam Age

Thiruvalluvar produced the Tirukkural, which is one of the most popular literary works linked with the Sangam culture. Though published slightly after the major Sangam period, it represents the cultural, social, and ethical principles of the time and is an essential resource for historians.

1. Structure and Content: It consists of 1,330 couplets (kurals) arranged into 133 chapters, each of which contains 10 couplets. Organized into three sections:
   • Aram (virtue – moral and ethical life)
   • Porul (wealth – political and socio-economic life)
   • Inbam (love – family and personal relationships)
2. Reflection of Sangam Society: Provides insights on Tamil society’s ethical beliefs, social conduct, and political ideas. Demonstrates ideal ruler features, government tasks, justice ideals, and the value of agriculture and trade. Highlights gender roles, family ethics, and interpersonal relationships, reflecting current social norms.
3. Universal and Secular Nature: It is famous for its secular orientation, which does not promote any specific religion, making it applicable to a wide range of cultures. Addresses universal moral ideals including sincerity, nonviolence, compassion, and honesty.
4. Historical Significance: Serves as a moral and cultural guide to understanding Tamil society during and after the Sangam period. Complements other Sangam literature by focusing on ethics and government, allowing historians to recreate the period's cultural and political philosophy.