Which of the following literary works of Sangam period has been considered as a collection of the oldest surviving Tamil poetry?

Correct option is A

The Correct answer is (a) Patinenmelkanakku

Explanation:

The correct answer is Patinenmelkanakku, which is considered a collection of the oldest surviving Tamil poetry from the Sangam period. It consists of 18 works (known as "eighteen books") and is a major anthology of classical Tamil literature that offers insights into the socio-political and cultural life of the time.

Information Booster:

1. Patinenmelkanakku is part of the ancient Sangam literature, known for its poetic expression and preservation of Tamil heritage.

2. This collection is believed to be compiled during the Sangam period, which lasted from approximately 300 BCE to 300 CE.

3. The texts cover a wide range of themes including love, war, and governance, reflecting the richness of Tamil society during the period.

4. It includes various styles of poetry, from elegiac to heroic.

5. The works in Patinenmelkanakku are considered essential for the study of Tamil history and culture.