4193 - Shilappadikaram
Author: Prince Ilango Adigal
Description: Shilappadikaram (The Ankle Bracelet) is one of the five great epics of Tamil literature, composed by Ilango Adigal, a Jain prince and poet, in the 2nd century CE. The narrative unfolds in three books, detailing the life of Kovalan and his wife Kannaki. Kovalan, a merchant, forsakes his devoted wife for the courtesan Madhavi, leading to a series of tragic events. Upon returning to Kannaki, Kovalan is wrongfully executed due to a false accusation involving her anklet. Kannaki’s subsequent actions, driven by grief and justice, culminate in the destruction of Madurai. The epic intertwines themes of love, fidelity, justice, and the consequences of one’s actions, all set against the backdrop of ancient South Indian society. ⸻ Keywords: Tamil epic, Ilango Adigal, Jain literature, South Indian mythology, justice, love, karma, Madurai, Kannaki, Kovalan, ancient India ⸻ Ideal for: Readers interested in classical Tamil literature, those exploring themes of justice and morality, and individuals seeking insights into ancient South Indian culture and society. ⸻ Age: 16 years and up (suitable for mature readers due to its complex themes and narrative depth) ⸻ Theme: The narrative delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, justice, and the moral consequences of one’s actions. It emphasizes the concept of karma and the societal values of ancient Tamil culture. ⸻ Tone: The tone is tragic and moralistic, with a focus on the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by the characters. ⸻ Book Type: Epic poetry; classical literature; cultural and historical narrative ⸻ Length: Approximately 224 pages.