Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct ?
- (a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
- (b) The social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets. ✓ UPSC's answer
- (c) Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic.
- (d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
Why the answer is (b)
• The Sangam poems (c. 300 BCE–300 CE) show awareness of the northern varna scheme: the Tolkappiyam mentions the fourfold division of antanar (Brahmins), arasar (kings), vaisiyar and velalar, so option (b) is correct.
• Hence option (b).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) Sangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
- Sangam poems are full of references to material culture.
- (c) Sangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic.
- The puram poems are steeped in warrior ethic.
- (d) Sangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
- Sangam literature treats magical forces as real, not irrational.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2022, held on 5 June 2022. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.