A kural is a distinctive form of short, rhythmic couplet or verse in Tamil literature. Each kural consists of precisely seven words, referred to as cirs in Tamil, organized into two lines. The structure adheres strictly to a format where the first line contains four words and the second line three. This compact form is celebrated for its capacity to express profound ethical, moral, and philosophical concepts within a limited lexical framework.
The most renowned example of this literary form is Thiruvalluvar’s Tirukkural, commonly referred to simply as the Kural. This seminal work comprises 1,330 kurals, segmented into three primary sections: Aram (virtue), Porul (wealth or polity), and Inbam (love). Each section offers insights and wisdom on various aspects of life, making the Kural a valuable guide.
Despite its ancient origins, the Tirukkural remains a cornerstone of Tamil culture and literature, esteemed for its universal insights into human nature and ethics. The enduring appeal of the kural lies in its versatility and depth. Each couplet delivers a complete thought or principle that encompasses the breadth of human experience and governance.
Through the medium of the kural, Thiruvalluvar’s work has not only shaped Tamil literature but has also significantly influenced the philosophical and moral outlook of numerous generations. The teachings encapsulated in the Kural continue to resonate, offering timeless guidance that transcends cultural boundaries.
Q1. What is a kural in Tamil literature?
Answer: A kural is a short, rhythmic couplet in Tamil literature, consisting of seven words arranged in two lines, known for conveying profound ideas succinctly.
Q2. Who is Thiruvalluvar?
Answer: Thiruvalluvar is a revered Tamil poet and philosopher, best known for composing the Tirukkural, a seminal text that explores ethics, politics, and love.
Q3. How many sections does the Tirukkural have?
Answer: The Tirukkural is divided into three main sections: Aram (virtue), Porul (wealth), and Inbam (love), each addressing different aspects of life.
Q4. Why is the Tirukkural significant?
Answer: The Tirukkural is significant for its ethical teachings and poetic form, offering timeless wisdom that influences Tamil culture and literature.
Q5. What themes are explored in kural?
Answer: Themes in kural include ethics, morality, human relationships, governance, and the pursuit of virtue and wealth, reflecting a comprehensive view of life.
Question 1: What is the structure of a kural?
A) Three lines of five words each
B) Two lines of four and three words
C) One line with eight words
D) Four lines of four words each
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Who authored the Tirukkural?
A) Kalidasa
B) Thiruvalluvar
C) Rabindranath Tagore
D) Tulsidas
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: How many kurals are there in the Tirukkural?
A) 1,000
B) 1,330
C) 1,500
D) 1,200
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What does Aram refer to in the Tirukkural?
A) Wealth
B) Virtue
C) Love
D) Knowledge
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: The Tirukkural is primarily written in which language?
A) Hindi
B) Tamil
C) Sanskrit
D) Telugu
Correct Answer: B
Question 6: What is the primary focus of the Porul section in the Tirukkural?
A) Love
B) Virtue
C) Governance and wealth
D) Philosophy
Correct Answer: C
Question 7: Which of the following best describes the Kural?
A) A long epic
B) A collection of essays
C) Short couplets
D) A historical narrative
Correct Answer: C
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