2022 GS Paper I, all questions
UPSC Prelims 2022 · GS Paper I
Question 93: History and Culture
Which one of the following statements about Sangam literature in ancient South India is correct ?
aSangam poems are devoid of any reference to material culture.
bThe social classification of Varna was known to Sangam poets.
cSangam poems have no reference to warrior ethic.
dSangam literature refers to magical forces as irrational.
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).
Sangam poems, from the early Tamil country, mention Brahmins and other varna categories, so the social classification of varna was known to the poets. The poems are rich in references to material culture, trade and crafts, they celebrate the warrior ethic in the heroic poems of the puram tradition, and they do not treat magical forces as irrational.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Sangam poems refer often to material culture, crafts and trade.
- (b) Correct. Varna was known to the Sangam poets.
- (c) The puram poems are full of warrior ethic.
- (d) The poems treat magical forces as real, not as irrational.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2022, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.