Embarking on the study of Malayalam Literature as a UPSC optional subject opens a door to a rich cultural tapestry. This vibrant language, boasting a long and distinguished history within the Dravidian family, offers a unique perspective on Indian literature. Delving into this optional subject, you’ll explore the evolution of Malayalam, from its ancient roots to the contemporary scene. The syllabus encompasses diverse literary forms like poetry, prose, and drama, along with fascinating genres like Manipravalam and folklore. Prepare to encounter the works of literary giants like Ezhuthachan and Vallathol Narayana Menon, gaining insights into Kerala’s social, cultural, and political landscape through the power of the written word.
Malayalam Paper 1
Section – A
1. Early phase of Malayalam Language:
1.1 Various theories : Origin from proto Dravidian, Tamil, Sanskrit.
1.2 Relation between Tamil and Malayalam : Six nayas of A. R. Rajarajavarma.
1.3 Pattu School—Definition, Ramacharitam, later pattu works—Niranam works and Krishnagatha.
2. Linguistic features of:
2.1 Manipravalam—definition. Language of early manipravala works—Champu, Sandesakavya, Chandrotsava, minor works. Later manipravala works—medieval Champu and Attakkatha.
2.2 Folklore—Southern and Northern ballads, Mappila songs.
2.3 Early Malayalam Prose—Bhashakautaliyam, Brahmandapuranam, Attaprakaram, Kramadipika and Nambiantamil.
3. Standardisation of Malayalam:
3.1 Peculiarities of the language of Pana, Kilippattu and Tullal.
3.2 Contributions of indigenous and European missionaries to Malayalam.
3.3 Characteristics of contemporary Malayalam; Malayalam as administrative language. Language of scientific and technical literature—media language.
Section – B
4. Ancient and Medieval Literature:
4.1 Pattu—Ramacharitam, Niranam Works and Krishnagatha.
4.2 Manipravalam—early and medieval manipravala works including attakkatha and champu.
4.3 Folk Literature.
4.4 Kilippattu, Tullal and Mahakavya.
5. Modern Literature – Poetry:
5.1 Venmani poets and contemporaries.
5.2 The advent of Romanticism—Poetry of Kavitraya i.e., Asan, Ulloor and Vallathol.
5.3 Poetry after Kavitraya.
5.4 Modernism in Malayalam Poetry.
6. Modern Literature – Prose:
6.1 Drama.
6.2 Novel.
6.3 Short story.
6.4 Biography, travelogue, essay and criticism.
Malayalam Paper 2
Section – A
Unit 1
1.1 Ramacharitam—Patalam 1.
1.2 Kannassaramayanam—Balakandam first 25 stanzas.
1.3 Unnunilisandesam—Purvabhagam 25 slokas including Prastavana.
1.4 Mahabharatham Kilippattu—Bhishmaparvam.
Unit 2
2.1 Kumaran Asan—Chintavisthayaya Sita.
2.2 Vailoppilli—Kutiyozhikkal.
2.3 G. Sankara Kurup—Perunthachan.
2.4 N. V. Krishna Variar—Tivandiyile pattu.
Unit 3
3.1 O. N. V.—Bhumikkoru Charamagitam.
3.2 Ayyappa Panicker—Kurukshetram.
3.3 Akkittam—Pandatha Messanthi.
3.4 Attur Ravivarma—Megharupan.
Section – B
Unit 4
4.1 O. Chanthu Menon—Indulekha.
4.2 Thakazhy—Chemmin.
4.3 O. V. Vijayan—Khasakkinte Ithihasam.
Unit 5
5.1 M. T. Vasudevan Nair—Vanaprastham (Collection).
5.2 N. S. Madhavan—Higvitta (Collection).
5.3 C. J. Thomas—1128-il Crime 27.
Unit 6
6.1 Kuttikrishna Marar—Bharataparyatanam.
6.2 M. K. Sanu—Nakshatrangalute Snehabhajanam.
6.3 V. T. Bhatttathirippad—Kannirum Kinavum.
FAQs on Malayalam Literature Optional Subject – UPSC
1. Why choose Malayalam Literature as an Optional Subject?
- Rich literary heritage with diverse genres like poetry, drama, and novels.
- Offers insights into Kerala’s history, culture, and social movements.
- Less competition compared to some other Literature optionals.
2. What syllabus areas are covered in the exam?
- The syllabus covers the history of Malayalam literature from its origins to contemporary times.
- It includes major authors, their works, literary movements, and critical analysis.
- A significant portion focuses on cultural and social contexts influencing the literature.
3. What study materials are recommended for preparation?
- Standard Malayalam literature textbooks by reputed authors.
- Critical essays and analyses of major literary works.
- Past UPSC exam papers for understanding question formats and expectations.
- Consider enrolling in coaching classes or online courses for guidance (optional).
4. How can I improve my answer writing for this subject?
- Develop a strong foundation in Malayalam language and grammar.
- Practice writing concise and analytical answers, showcasing critical thinking.
- Quote relevant literary excerpts and critically analyze their significance.
- Maintain a clear and structured approach in your writing.
5. Are there any additional benefits of choosing this optional?
- Deepens your understanding of Kerala, a crucial region of India.
- Enhances analytical and critical thinking skills valuable for the UPSC exam.
- Stands out from the crowd with a unique optional subject choice (if well-prepared).
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