A Comparative Study of Kondraiventhan and Vetriverkai

The ideas expressed in literature vary according to the period and social context. Values that are lauded in one era may lose their significance in the next. The fundamental life principles that define Tamil civilization have undergone changes due to shifts in economics, social hierarchy, religion, and political transformation. Ethical codes for individual and collective life were initially established by kings during the tribal stage. These norms developed into virtues (Aram). Although virtues change over time, poets continue to express them in literature with the noble objective that people should follow them even today. Kondraiventhan and Narunthokai are two ethical texts written in different periods. The objective of this article is to analyze the ethical principles stated in these two works through a comparative approach. Key Terms: civilization – Akkam – Aram- Hospitality – Progeny