Question 50 from UPSC CSE 2022 - Art & Culture

Question

Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct?

Accepted Answer

Correct Option: B. The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets.

Strategy: Focus on core aspects of Sangam literature content. Avoid absolute or negative phrasing (e.g., 'devoid', 'no reference') and value judgments (e.g., 'magical forces as irrational'), given the texts' known realism and social detail. Confirm awareness of Varna by Sangam poets, based on references to fourfold social classification, which supports option B.

Key Info: ## Sangam Literature Overview

Sangam literature comprises ancient Tamil poems composed between c. 300 BCE and 300 CE. Tradition links their creation to literary assemblies (Sangams) patronized by Tamil kings, particularly the Pandyas. These texts offer a broad view of social, political, and economic life, notable for their realism. Poets detail settlements, professions, markets, trade with foreign Yavanas (Romans and Greeks), and material culture like weapons, jewelry, chariots, and architecture.

## Society and Varna

Society during this period exhibited stratification, with mentions of the 'arasar' (ruling class), 'vellalar' (landowners), 'kadaisiyar' (laborers), and various professional groups. Sangam poems explicitly refer to four social classes resembling the 'Varna' system (arasar, anthanar, vanigar, vellalar), though they retain distinct South Indian characteristics. Brahmins (Antanar) are noted among priests and learned individuals.

## Themes and Culture

The warrior ethic, encompassing valor, heroism, and gift-giving, is a prominent theme, with frequent references to wars, duels, and the honoring of fallen heroes through 'nadukal' (hero stones). Material culture is vividly depicted through economic specifics, artifact descriptions, and urban life. The concept of magical forces ('aṉaṅku') existed as a sacred or supernatural power, but Sangam literature does not portray them as 'irrational.'

## Primary Sources

Key Sangam works such as Ettuthokai and Pattuppāṭṭu serve as primary evidence for these historical and cultural aspects. This period is crucial for understanding the early history and society of South India.

Answer

Option A: Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.

Answer

Option C: Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic.

Answer

Option D: Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.