Topic: Indian culture will cover the salient aspects of Art Forms, literature and Architecture from ancient to modern times.
1. Critically analyse the importance of Sangam literature as source of understanding history and cultural attributes of ancient south India. (250 words).
Difficulty level: Moderate
Reference: Insights on India
Why the question:
The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 1 and mentioned as part of Mission-2023 Secure timetable.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the historical importance of Sangam literature.
Directive word:
Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic.
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 valour and love.
Next, write about Sangam literature as 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.
