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VOL. 12, ISSUE 10 (2025)
Character Values in Tolkappiyam
Authors
Dr. Kamaraj S
Abstract
In the Porulatikaram section of the ancient
Tamil grammar text Tolkappiyam, character values are defined through literary
conventions that govern the two major poetic genres: akam (the inner, personal
world of love) and puram (the outer, public world of war, heroism, and
society). Instead of naming individual characters, the text universalizes their
virtues and emotions by tying them to specific poetic landscapes (tiṇai) and
dramatic situations. In akam poems, characters are not given names to emphasize
their universal appeal. Their actions and feelings are a reflection of an ideal
human being. In puram poems, characters often refer to historical individuals
and are defined by their public deeds, societal roles, and adherence to ethics
(aram). These values are expressed in themes of heroism and warfare (vīram).
The values of characters in Tolkappiyam are not merely stated but are expressed
through a variety of literary devices.
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Pages:61-62
How to cite this article:
Dr. Kamaraj S "Character Values in Tolkappiyam". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 12, Issue 10, 2025, Pages 61-62
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