GS1 PYQ (Mains Answer Writing): Sangam Literature | History for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Q1: 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. (GS 1 Mains Paper)

Answer:

Introduction:

The Sangam Literature, although not primarily focused on political history, provides invaluable insights into the social and economic fabric of ancient South India. Composed between 300 BCE and 300 CE, during the Sangam period, these texts offer a rich tapestry of life, culture, and society, showcasing the intricacies of everyday existence.

Social and Economic Conditions:

1. Social Structure: Sangam Literature delineates a society structured along hierarchical lines, with clear divisions based on occupation, caste, and gender roles. It reflects the prevalence of distinct social classes such as the aristocratic elite (maravar, velir), merchants (vanigar), and commoners (vallavar).
2. Economic Activities: The texts vividly depict the economic activities prevalent during the period, including agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship. They highlight the significance of agriculture as the backbone of the economy, with detailed descriptions of cultivation practices, irrigation systems, and agrarian life.
3. Trade and Commerce: Sangam Literature provides glimpses into the bustling trade networks that linked South India with other regions, emphasizing the importance of ports and trade routes in facilitating commercial exchanges. References to maritime trade with distant lands underscore the region's integration into broader Indian Ocean networks.
4. Women's Status: While reflecting patriarchal norms prevalent in ancient societies, the literature also portrays instances of women's agency and participation in various spheres of life, including trade, poetry, and administration.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, though the Sangam Literature may not offer a detailed political chronicle, its portrayal of social and economic conditions is invaluable for understanding the dynamics of ancient South India. Through its vivid narratives and poetic expressions, it provides a window into the lives of people, their livelihoods, and the interconnectedness of communities, enriching our understanding of this vibrant period in history.