TAMIL LITERATURE Meaning and
Definition
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Tamil literature refers to the body of literary works written in the Tamil language, a prominent Dravidian language spoken primarily in southern India, Sri Lanka, and various other parts of the world by Tamil-speaking communities. Tamil literature encompasses a wide range of written texts, including poetry, prose, drama, and various forms of religious and philosophical literature.
Dating back over two millennia, Tamil literature has a rich and diverse history that has evolved through various periods. It is classified into five major periods: Sangam literature (1st to 3rd century BCE), post-Sangam literature (3rd to 6th century CE), early medieval literature (6th to 12th century CE), late medieval literature (13th to 17th century CE), and modern literature (late 17th century CE onwards).
Tamil literature is known for its profound contributions to various genres. The Sangam period, particularly, saw the flourishing of classical Tamil poetry, with the notable creation of anthologies known as Ettuthokai and Pattuppattu. The post-Sangam period witnessed the growth of didactic literature, ethical treatises, and poetry dedicated to gods and goddesses. The medieval period saw the rise of religious literature, including the devotional hymns of the Nayanars and Alvars, who were poet-saints of Shaivism and Vaishnavism, respectively.
The themes explored in Tamil literature are wide-ranging and encompass love, war, religion, social issues, and philosophical musings. Tamil literature has played a significant role in shaping the cultural identity and language of Tamil-speaking communities and continues to be celebrated for its literary excellence.
Etymology of TAMIL LITERATURE
The etymology of the word "Tamil literature" can be traced back to the origin of the Tamil language itself. Tamil is one of the oldest languages in the world, with a rich literary history dating back more than 2,000 years.
The word "Tamil" comes from the Dravidian language family, specifically the Tamil-Malayalam branch. The origin of the term "Tamil" is believed to be rooted in the word "tamiz", which refers to the act of speaking or communicating in the Tamil language.
The term "Tamil literature" refers to the body of written works in the Tamil language, including poetry, prose, and other forms of literary expression. Tamil literature has a long and diverse history, encompassing various genres and themes, ranging from classical poetry to modern prose.
