Microsoft Word Revised Syllabus Ver doc

Lesson - V 
ANNEXURE 
(i)
 
Tirukkural 
Introduction
 
Tirukkural is a superb poetic work by saint Thiruvalluvar embodies values that have 
been even unchanging and applicable. It is one of the most notable literary and ethical 
treatises in the Indian Languages. It’s written by using two line poems (Couplets) clarifying 
various aspects of life. This book is divided into three parts: Virtue, wealth and love being 
inclusive of 1330 couplets collected in 133 chapters explaining various aspects of human 
virtues or vices, the collection of 1330 kural written in metrical verses of two lines. 
Considered as the Bible of South India or the fifth Vedas of Tamil, the kural is easily the 
most popular contribution from Tamils to the storehouse of Indian Literature. 
The word Tirukkural is composed of two words Tiru and kural which mean ‘sacred’ 
and ‘couplet’ respectively. Like the Confucian, Lun Yu which is translated as “sacred 
sayings”, the common English rendering of Tirukkural is sacred couplets. Valluvar composed 
every chapter, perhaps in response to a demand or request to produce ten best couplets on a 
particular subject. He would bring together all his experience, the knowledge has gained in 
mastering other texts and all the information available as folklore in order to compose ten 
couplets on a particular subject, say for instance ‘Ignorance’. Tirukkural is a valuable artistic 
and stylistic literary value as well as instantaneous towards the art of imaging some of the 
precious wisdom. 
V.V.S. Aiyar, a Tamil scholar, the most recent translator, has produced the best 
English rendering hitherto. He has certainly succeeded in giving a very fine translation. The 
emphasis that Tiruvalluvar places on love, forgiveness, gentleness and forbearances is 
especially noteworthy. The poet reveals a complete mastery of his form. The first line of the 
couplet consists of four feet and the second of three are given. The rule governing the linking 
of these syllables are very strict. In addition, there must be a certain amount in initial vowel 
alliteration, as well as second syllable rhyming between the first and fourth feet. The uses of 
poetic devices of rhythm and alliteration by means of similes and other stylistic devices are 
given. 

---

160