Chapter Test: Contacts with Distant lands - CTET & State TET MCQ

A plough or plow is a farm tool for loosening or turning the soil before sowing seed or planting.

Answer : A

Irrigation means the supply of water to land or crops to help growth, typically by means of channels like canals, wells and tanks.

Assembly of Literacy Persons

• Sangam: Sangam refers to an assembly or gathering of literary persons. It is a term commonly used in Indian literature to describe a gathering of poets, scholars, and writers who come together to discuss and celebrate literary works.


• Importance: Sangam provides a platform for like-minded individuals to exchange ideas, share their work, and collaborate on literary projects. It fosters a sense of community among literati and promotes the growth and development of literature.


• Activities: During a Sangam, participants may engage in readings, discussions, debates, workshops, and other literary activities. It is a place where creativity flourishes, and new literary endeavors are born.


• Networking: Sangam also serves as a networking opportunity for individuals in the literary field. It allows writers to connect with publishers, editors, agents, and other professionals who can help them further their careers.


• Camaraderie: Beyond the literary discussions, Sangam also fosters a sense of camaraderie and friendship among participants. It is a place where individuals bond over their shared love for literature and support each other in their creative endeavors


 

Sangam Literature:

Sangam Literature is the correct answer for the earliest works in Tamil. Let's explore this in detail:

1. Introduction to Sangam Literature:
- Sangam Literature refers to a collection of Tamil literature created during the Sangam period, which is estimated to be between 300 BCE and 300 CE.
- The Sangam period was a golden age for Tamil language, literature, and culture in the southern region of India.

2. Sangam Period:
- The Sangam period was named after the assemblies called "Sangam" that were held during this time.
- These assemblies were gathering places for Tamil poets and scholars to discuss various topics, including literature, language, and politics.
- The Sangam period is considered crucial for the development of Tamil language and literature.

3. Themes and Genres in Sangam Literature:
- Sangam Literature covers a diverse range of themes and genres, including poetry, epics, didactic literature, love songs, and heroic narratives.
- The literature reflects the social, cultural, and political aspects of ancient Tamil society.
- It explores themes such as love, war, morality, heroism, and the natural world.

4. Five Collections of Sangam Literature:
- Sangam Literature is divided into two categories: "Patthupaattu" (Ten Idylls) and "Ettuthokai" (Eight Anthologies).
- The "Ettuthokai" consists of eight anthologies, while the "Patthupaattu" is a collection of ten long poems.
- These collections contain works by various poets, some of whom remain anonymous.

5. Prominent Works in Sangam Literature:
- Some of the well-known works in Sangam Literature include:
- Tolkappiyam: A comprehensive work on Tamil grammar and poetics.
- Ettuthokai: Eight anthologies consisting of short poems on various themes.
- Patthupaattu: Ten long poems, including the famous epic "Silappathikaram."
- Purananuru: An anthology of four hundred poems that provide insights into ancient Tamil society.

6. Significance of Sangam Literature:
- Sangam Literature plays a vital role in understanding ancient Tamil culture, history, and language.
- It provides valuable insights into the social structure, customs, and beliefs of the people during the Sangam period.
- The literature also showcases the rich literary tradition and artistic expressions of ancient Tamil society.

In conclusion, Sangam Literature is considered the earliest works in Tamil. It encompasses a wide range of literary genres and themes, reflecting the cultural, social, and political aspects of ancient Tamil society. The poetry and writings from this period continue to be highly regarded and hold significant importance in Tamil literature and history.

The correct answer is B as The Art of Mathura refers to a particular school of Indian art, almost entirely surviving in the form of sculpture, starting in the 2nd century BCE, which centered on the city of Mathura.

The gram bhojaka was often the largest land owner. He had slaves and hired workers to cultivate his land. The king also used him to collect taxes from villages and sometimes he performed like a judge and also like a policeman.