Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
1. Sangam literature is not just a literary masterpiece but also a valuable source of ancient Indian history. Comment. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: New Indian Express
Additional reference: Class 11th Tamil Nadu History (New Edition)
Why the question: As Sangam poetry is often identified with Tamil centres such as Madurai and Kanchi, historians hardly used this literature for the study of South India except Tamil Nadu and Kerala to an extent because of the ambiguity of the geographical limit of Sangam cultural region.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the various facets of Sangam literature and their relevance as historical texts.
Directive word:
Comment– here we must express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by writing about the three Tamil Sangams and the formation of state in Southern India.
Body:
In the first part, write about I detail bring out the various dimensions of the Sangam texts – Ideals, ritualism, mysticism and tale of valor and love.
Next, write about Sangam literature ss historical texts, they give information about kings, dynasties, administration, taxes, trade and commerce, societal aspects etc. The classical epics also throw light on contemporary events as well as historical aspects. Show the refined and advanced nature of literature. Use various Sangam texts as examples to substantiate your points.
Write a few criticisms of Sangam literature as historical texts – lack of chronology, discontinuities etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by giving your opinion of Sangam texts as source of history.
