UPSC Tamil Literature Optional Syllabus 2024 for IAS Exam

Tamil Literature Optional is one of the literature subjects offered by UPSC for the UPSC Mains Exam. In the UPSC Mains test, the Tamil Literature optional subject comprises two papers: Paper I and Paper II , each worth 250 marks. Together, these papers contribute to a total of 500 marks for this optional subject.

UPSC Tamil Literature Syllabus Overview

UPSC Tamil Literature Optional Syllabus 2024

UPSC Tamil Literature Optional Syllabus For Paper I

UPSC Tamil Literature Optional Syllabus For Paper II

UPSC Exam Pattern of Tamil Literature Optional

• • The UPSC main exam is divided into two papers, i.e., Paper-I and Paper-II.
  • Both Paper I and Paper II carry 250 marks each, for a total of 500 marks for the Tamil Literature optional papers.
  • In both Paper I and Paper II of Tamil Literature, optional candidates have to attempt FIVE questions in all. THREE hours are allotted to attempt each paper.
  • Ques Numbers 1 and 5 from both papers are compulsory to attempt, and out of the remaining questions, THREE (3) are to be attempted, choosing at least ONE (1) question from each section.
• Answers must be written in Tamil.

Recommended Books For Tamil Literature Optional UPSC Mains

List of Tamil Literature Optional Books for UPSC Mains Paper I

• History of Tamil Language

• Tamil Mozhi Varalaru by Su. Sakthivel
• Tamil Mozhiyum Varalarum” by Devira

• Tamil Literature History

• Tamil Ilakkiya Varalaru by Mu. Varadarasanar
• Tamil Ilakkiya Varalaru by Thamizannal
• Ilakkiya Marabu by Mu. Varadarasanar

• Ethical Literature

• Valluvar Padai by V.C. Kulandaisamy
• Devotional Literature
• Thiruvasagam- A. S. Gnanasambandan (Commentary)

• Folk Literature

• Tamilar Nagarigamum Panpaadum” by Thatchinamoorthy

List of Tamil Literature Optional Books for UPSC Mains Paper II

• Ancient Literature

• Kuruntokai (Edited Text with Commentary)
• Purananuru (Edited Text with Commentary)

• Epic Literature

• Silappadikaram – A Study by Sami Chidambaranar
• Kambaramayanam (only specific portion to be studied as per syllabus)

• Devotional Literature

• Tiruppavai (Edited Text with Commentary)
• Thiruvasagam – Neetthal Vinnappam (Edited Text with Commentary)

• Modern Literature

• Reference books on prominent modern authors and literary movements

• Folk Literature

• Reference books covering various Tamil folk genres like songs, ballads, and narratives

• Other literary works are mentioned in the syllabus.

Download Tamil Literature Optional Question Papers

How to Prepare For UPSC Tamil Literature Optional?

• Understand the Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the UPSC syllabus for Tamil Literature, optional. Understand the topics and sub-topics mentioned to create a study plan.

• Study Material: Gather study material such as textbooks, reference books, literary works, and study guides recommended by experts and previous successful candidates. Make sure to cover both classical and modern Tamil literature.

• Write Summary: After reading a book, try to write a summary of the book. Get a summary evaluated by experts and work on the feedback given.

• Make Notes: While studying, make concise notes covering important concepts, authors, literary movements, critical perspectives, and significant works. These notes will help you with quick revisions closer to the exam.

• Read Widely: Read a variety of Tamil literary works including novels, poetry, essays, dramas, and literary criticism. This will help you develop a comprehensive understanding of Tamil literature and its various dimensions.

• Analyse Literary Works: Analyse and critically evaluate the themes, characters, writing style, and socio-cultural contexts of the literary works you study. Develop the ability to interpret texts from different perspectives.

• Language Proficiency: Ensure proficiency in the Tamil language including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension. Practice writing essays, summaries, and critical analyses in Tamil to improve your writing skills.

• Previous Year Papers: Solve previous years' question papers to understand the exam pattern, question types, and difficulty level. This will also help you identify important topics and focus your preparation accordingly.

• Mock Tests: Take regular mock tests to assess your preparation level and improve time management skills. Analyse your performance and identify areas that need more attention.

• Revision: Regularly revise the topics you have covered to reinforce your understanding and retain important information. Create a revision schedule and stick to it.