P10426 Lesson - 6

Kannathasan's Maangkani

     This lesson describes the beauty of Kannathasan's 'Maangkani'. It is a drama in verse and has as its source, a story from the history of Tamil kings. Kannathasan created this piece when he was in prison. The pain of separation in love life and mental agony caused by unfulfilled love are depicted in this book. Maangkani, violates poetric tradition as the poet is more spontaneous in his descriptions. The heroic greatness of the three Tamil kings and the virtues of Tamil Women are brought out in this book. The poet Kannathasan records in Maangkani his knowledge of literature and his various experiences.

    The five central units discuss the life of the poet Kannathasan, the synopsis of the stories, the characters Adaleru and Maangkani, their love and chastity, the ideals of family life and the literary excellence, and the greatness of Tamil language.

    Maangkani was written in the central jail at Trichy where the poet was imprisoned as a participant in the Kallakudi riot.

    This work has 108 similies and it reveals the impact of Sangam literature, especially Natrinai, Kurunthokai, Ayinkurunooru, Kalithokai and Aganaanooru dealing with the inner life of Tamils. Characteristics of Madavi of Cilapathikaram and the heroine Manimekalai of the work of the same name, can be seen in the creation of Maangkani. The sweetness of Tamil can be enjoyed while reading this book.

    You will enjoy the poetic beauty of this book Maangkani, which sings of love as the human greatness. It also brings out the virtues of family life, and the transcience of human happines. The sweetness of Tamil songs, and the beauty of dance can be oppreciated. The creation of a court dancer as the heroine, is an innovative attempt.