புறப்பாடல்களில் சங்கப் பெண் கவிஞர்களின் குரல்கள்: சமூக-அரசியல் மற்றும் பெண்ணியக் கண்ணோட்டம் ஓர் விரிவான ஆய்வு

Voices of Sangam Female Poets in Puram Poetry: A Comprehensive Study from Socio-Political and Feminist Perspectives

Abstract

Sangam literature serves as a treasure trove that proclaims the lifestyle, valor, and righteousness of the ancient Tamils. In particular, Puram (exterior/socio-political) poetry, including the Purananuru, holds a primary position in constructing the political hegemony, martial traditions, and values of Sangam-era society. Although there is a prevailing perception that Puram poems generally sing of men's valor, the voices of the female poets echoing within them are highly powerful and unique.1

Over 26 female poets who lived during the Sangam period, including Avvaiyar, Okkur Masathiyar, and Kakkaipadiniyar Nachellaiyar, did not merely sing about Aham (inner/domestic) life such as family and love; they courageously recorded political hegemony, social justice, martial ethics, and the psychology of the 'heroic mother'.3

This article extensively explores how the female body and emotions were politicized during the historical context in which Sangam society transitioned from a tribal state to a monarchical system. It also analyzes how the ideological construct of 'Heroic Motherhood' was utilized to shape the personalities required for the territorial expansion of kings.1

Furthermore, by integrating other historical evidence, this article presents a comprehensive feminist perspective on the political acumen of female poets, the diplomatic missions they undertook, and the social contradictions revealed through poetic themes (thurais) such as Magatparkanchi.7.