Tamilmanam International Research Journal of Tamil Studies

Sangam literature holds a distinct place among the ancient literary treasures of Tamil. It meticulously records the lifestyle, culture, romantic emotions, social relationships, and nature-integrated living of the Tamils of that era. Kurunthogai, one of the works of the Ettuthogai (Eight Anthologies), is a prominent text centered on Akam (inner life and love poetry). When examining the position of the heroine (Thalaivi) in Kurunthogai, her romantic feelings, patient waiting, grief of separation, love spats (Oodal), sense of shyness, mental fortitude, conversations with her companion (Thozhi), connection with nature, and her sense of agency in love are prominently expressed.

Kurunthogai conveys deep inner emotions through brief poetic lines. Through Akam characters such as the hero, heroine, companion, foster mother, and biological mother, the subtle nuances of the human mind are articulated. The heroine in Kurunthogai is not merely a passive or silent female character; she realizes her love, honors it, grieves over separation, expresses her expectations to the hero, and conveys her views through her companion when necessary. Thus, the heroine in Kurunthogai emerges as a complete female personality endowed with deep emotions and thoughtful agency.