The Meaning of the Word Masculinity in Sangam Literature

சங்க இலக்கியத்தில் ஆண்மை என்ற சொல்லின் பொருள்

Abstract

During the Sangam period the terms aanthakai, aanmai, aan, magan (masculine) are used to refer to a man’s against a woman. However, the meaning of those words is in stark contrast to what could have been said to refer to a woman’s morals in the sense of chastity / femininity. That is, on the level of morality, chastity / femininity x anthakai, aanmai, aan, magan (masculinity), female x masculine are located in opposition. This article explores how these words are used to describe the moral character of men in Sangam songs.