சங்ககாலச் சமூகத்தில் கைம்பெண்: ஒழுக்கமும் ஒடுக்குமுறையும் - ஒரு விரிவான சமூகவியல் மற்றும் வரலாற்று ஆய்வு

Widows in Sangam Society: Morality and Oppression – A Comprehensive Sociological and Historical Study

Abstract

Sangam Literature serves as a temporal mirror, proclaiming the lofty culture and ethical principles of ancient Tamil Nadu to the world. Notably, the education, bravery, love, and social contributions of Sangam-era women are recorded in these literary works in an astonishing manner. However, on the flip side of this 'Golden Age' depiction, the status of widows is found to be deeply tragic and filled with oppression. During the period when the matriarchal social structure began to fade and Tamil Nadu transitioned into a land-owning patriarchal society, the concept of 'Karpu' (Chastity) reinforced a mindset that viewed women as private property. Consequently, cruel practices such as 'Kaimmai Nonbu' (Widowhood penance) and 'Udankattai Eruthal' (Sati) were imposed on widows as social norms.

Using evidence from Sangam works such as Purananuru, Narrinai, Akananuru, and Tolkappiyam, this study extensively examines the social status of widows. Specifically, against the backdrop of the 'Ananku' (Sacred Power) theory proposed by George L. Hart, this research analyzes why widows were isolated from society and why the defacement of their beauty was considered necessary. Furthermore, this paper provides a detailed compilation of the differences in widowhood practices between aristocratic and common women, economic factors, and the changes that have occurred in the modern era.Key words:  Sangam Literature, Widow, , Concept of Chastity, Women’s Oppression, Sangam Age Society..