The UPSC Tamil Optional Paper II syllabus focuses on the detailed study of Tamil literature, including classical and modern texts, as well as critical analysis and interpretation. Below is the detailed syllabus for Tamil Optional Paper II:
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Tamil Optional Paper II Syllabus
1. Ancient Tamil Literature
– Sangam Literature:
– Tolkappiyam: Phonology, morphology, and syntax.
– Ettuthogai: Kurunthogai, Ainkurunuru, Akananuru, Purananuru, etc.
– Pattupattu: Thirumurugatrupadai, Porunaratrupadai, etc.
– Post-Sangam Literature:
– Didactic Literature: Thirukkural, Naladiyar, etc.
– Epics: Silappathikaram (Ilango Adigal) and Manimekalai (Seethalai Saathanar).
2. Medieval Tamil Literature
– Bhakti Literature:
– Thevaram (Appar, Sundarar, and Thirugnanasambandar).
– Thiruvasagam (Manikkavasagar).
– Nalayira Divya Prabandham (Alwars).
– Kavyas and Puranas:
– Kamba Ramayanam (Kamban).
– Periya Puranam (Sekkizhar).
– Thiruppugazh (Arunagirinathar).
3. Modern Tamil Literature
– Prose and Poetry:
– Works of Subramania Bharati: Panchali Sabatham, Kuyil Pattu, etc.
– Works of Bharathidasan: Kudumba Vilakku, Tamil Illakiyam, etc.
– Works of Kalki Krishnamurthy: Ponniyin Selvan, Sivagamiyin Sabatham, etc.
– Contemporary Literature:
– Works of modern poets and writers like Pudhumaipithan, Jayakanthan, Sundara Ramasamy, etc.
– Trends in modern Tamil literature: Feminism, Dalit literature, and post-modernism.
4. Literary Criticism and Theory
– Principles of literary criticism in Tamil.
– Comparative study of Tamil literature with other Indian and world literatures.
– Major Tamil literary critics and their contributions.
5. Tamil Folk Literature
– Folklore: Myths, legends, and folk tales.
– Folk songs: Occupational songs, ritual songs, and ballads.
– Proverbs and riddles in Tamil.
6. Tamil Drama and Cinema
– Evolution of Tamil drama: Traditional and modern forms.
– Contributions of Tamil cinema to literature and culture.
– Analysis of literary adaptations in Tamil cinema.
7. Translation Studies
– Principles and techniques of translation.
– Challenges in translating Tamil literature into other languages and vice versa.
– Comparative study of translations of Tamil literary works.
8. Tamil Language and Literature in the Digital Age
– Digital preservation of Tamil literature.
– Role of the internet and social media in promoting Tamil language and culture.
– Tamil computing: Fonts, encoding, and software.
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Preparation Tips for Tamil Optional Paper II
1. Textual Study: Focus on reading and understanding the prescribed texts, including Sangam literature, Thirukkural, and modern works.
2. Critical Analysis: Develop the ability to critically analyze and interpret literary works.
3. Comparative Study: Understand the connections between Tamil literature and other Indian/world literatures.
4. Practice Answer Writing: Write answers in Tamil to improve fluency and presentation.
5. Stay Updated: Keep track of contemporary trends and developments in Tamil literature.
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This syllabus provides a comprehensive framework for preparing for the UPSC Tamil Optional Paper II. Combined with Paper I, it offers a deep understanding of Tamil language, literature, and culture.
