Lesson - 1
P10411 Epic - A defenition
In this lesson you will learn about the meaning of Kappiyam known as epic
in English, In the form of a long, continuous poem the ancient Tamil literary
form provides a lot of information, Definition of epic is stated in Thandiyalankaaram
and other Tamil works of ancient times. The core concept dealt with in
different forms throughout the epic is called Paavigam. The origin and
growth of epic and different classes of epic from olden days to modern
times are presented. Information about major and minor epics is also provided
in this lessons.
Besides
introduction and summarisation there are five units in this lesson. The
first of these units explains Kaappiyam or epic with illustration for
Kaaviyam and Kaappiyam as in Yesu Kaaviyam, Yasothara Kaaviyam, Karpu
Kaaviyam and Kannaki Puratchi Kaappiyam. Epic tradition was established
by several poets who adopted this form of literature for expressing their
views, observations and experiences in creative styles. Initially, individual
poems developed from the stage of collection to significant contribution
using story patterns and imagination.
In the second
unit the Tamil grammar of literary forms called Thandiyalankaram distinguishes
between major and minor epics in terms of four aspects of Aram or ethics,
Porul or materials, Inbam or pleasure and Veedu or spiritual attainment.
Further, most of the characteristics of an epic would have been followed
in major epics. Minor epics may deal with lesser aspects having adopted
only a few of the epic qualities. Other works like Veerashozhiam, Panniru
Paattiyal, Maaranalankaaram and Thamizh Perakaraathi deal with epics and
their forms, subjects and styles.
The third
central unit classifies kaappiam into Iymperumkaappiyam or five major
epics and Iynchirukaappiyam five minor epics. Cilapathikaaram, Manimekalai,
Jeevaga Sinthaamani, Valaiyaapathi and Kundalakesi are the five major
epics. Soolamani, Neelakesi, Yasothara Kaaviyam, Naagakumara Kaaviyam
and Uthayana Kumaara Kaaviyam are the five minor epics. Besides the western
distinction between primitive and art or literary epics, Kaappiyam is
classified on the basis of the subject-matter treated in the work.
The fourth
unit lists the characteristics of epic as story structure, hero, characterisation
and ancillary stories.
The fourth
unit highlights Indian Epics against the back drop of World Epics. Present
day epics of Bharathiar, Bharathidaasan, Kannadaasan and others are outlined.
By learning
about Tamil epics you will understand the classical nature of Tamil language
on par with great old languages like Greek, Latin and Sanskrit. The Tamil
epic tradition is an important consideration for the classical status
of Tamil language.
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