Tolkappiyam
Tolkappiyam is an ancient Tamil text that serves as a foundational work on Tamil grammar and poetics. Believed to have been composed around the 3rd century BCE, it is attributed to the sage Tolkappiyar. The text is divided into three main sections: Ezhuthu, which deals with letters and sounds; Sol, focusing on words and their meanings; and Porul, which addresses the context and usage of language in literature.
The significance of Tolkappiyam extends beyond grammar; it also provides insights into the culture, society, and aesthetics of ancient Tamil civilization. It is considered one of the earliest works of Tamil literature and has influenced subsequent literary traditions. Scholars continue to study Tolkappiyam for its linguistic and cultural contributions.