Question Q.3CommentGS1GS1
Though not very useful from the point of view of a connected political history of South India, the Sangam literature portrays the social and economic conditions of its time with remarkable vividness. Comment.
Introduction
Sangam literature supplies to the rich literary works that originated during Pandyan kingdom, with field three 'sangams'
17 words
Main Body
Important works:
1Tolarkapiyam
2Silappadikaram (Ilanpo [illegible])
3Manimekali (Satthu)
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
1Tolarkapiyam provides classification of land into 'Tinais' => division of economic resources (Kuriniji, Palai and mesas, Mullai pastoral tracts agricultural land areas, Neithal maritime/coastal areas)
2Silappadikaram provides vivid description of market please => presence of barter system, kshatriyali
3The division of occupation => farmers, shepherds, fishermen, weavers men etc.
4Sangam texts also mention presence of guild.
5Pursuit of foreign trade => mentioned in Tolarkapiyam
of guilds.
5Pursuit of foreign trade => mentioned in tolarkapiyam
SOCIETAL CONDITIONS
1Manimmeratai => Buddhist nun => indicates presence of polymeric society.
2Status of women => as shown in kanavagi's story (Silappadikaram) => primarily patriarchal society.
3Mentions of presence of 'chalvite temples in traditions, however, sangam texts don't provide details about political history => lack of royal patronage => presence of uncouth systems => royal departments of literature => control over publications.
Hence, sangam texts are one of the oldest evidences of tamil literature and are integral to preserve the multi-linguistic character of Indian society.
181 words4 paragraphs
Diagram
Flowchart showing three important Sangam works and their focus on economic conditions including land classification and occupations
- Comprehensive classification of land types
- Detailed breakdown of occupational divisions
- Mentions trade and market systems
Topper
Ritika Chitlangia
Subject & Paper
GS1GS1
Topic
Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India
Sangam Literature
Social and Economic Conditions
Writing Stats
198
Total words
4
Paragraphs
analytical and structured
Tone