நாட்டுப்புற இலக்கியங்களில் கல்விச் சிந்தனைகள்

Abstract

Even in times when formal, written education was not widespread, it was folk tales and songs that opened the eyes of the common people, imparting essential principles for living. Often referred to as "unwritten literature," these folk tales and songs serve as repositories that express the emotions, experiential wisdom, and social perspectives of the working class. While classical literature (Sangam literature) and ethical treatises articulate the significance of education in a sophisticated, elevated language, folk tales and songs convey educational insights through the simple language of the common folk, drawing upon examples from everyday life. Literature emerged alongside the very dawn of human society; long before the advent of a written script, humans transmitted their experiences and imaginations orally—a tradition known as "folk literature." In an era devoid of widespread formal schooling, folk tales functioned as noble educational institutions, teaching the common people about morality and the art of living. This article examines the educational concepts embedded within these tales, as well as the values they impart to society, supported by relevant evidence.

Keywords: Commonfolk, Mother’s lap, Herb, Generosity, Exalted