WOMEN AND EDUCATION IN THE SANGAM AGE: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE

Author

Dr. T. VENNILA


Abstract

 Women’s education and intellectual contributions form an important aspect of the social and cultural history of ancient Tamilakam. The Sangam Age, known for its rich literary traditions, provides valuable evidence of women’s participation in poetry, ethical thought, public life, and the preservation of cultural knowledge. The works of female poets such as Avvaiyar, Velliveethiyar, Kakkaipadiniyar, and Okkur Masathiyar demonstrate that women could acquire literary knowledge and express sophisticated ideas concerning love, war, kingship, generosity, and social relationships. Sangam literature also provides insights into women’s social experiences, family responsibilities, and cultural roles. However, the presence of accomplished female poets does not necessarily establish that education was equally accessible to all women. This article examines the historical evidence for women’s education during the Sangam Age, focusing on literary sources, female poets, educational practices, social conditions, and the limitations of the available evidence. It argues that women participated in the intellectual and literary culture of ancient Tamil society, although the extent of educational opportunities available to ordinary women remains uncertain.



Keywords

Women’s Education, Sangam Age, Ancient Tamilakam, Avvaiyar, Female Poets, Tamil Literature, Social History, Women’s Intellectual Contributions.



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References


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