Ettuthokai is a collection of 18 ancient Tamil poems that are part of the larger body of Tamil literature known as Sangam literature. These poems are attributed to various poets and cover themes such as love, nature, and the human experience. They are significant for their rich language and cultural insights into ancient Tamil society. The Ettuthokai is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of life and emotions. It serves as an important resource for understanding the history, culture, and values of the Tamil people during the Sangam period, which lasted from approximately 300 BCE to 300 CE.