Kannagi’s Life Philosophy from a Reconstructive Perspective

மீட்டுருவாக்க நோக்கில் கண்ணகியின் வாழ்வியல்

Abstract

This study examines the reconstruction of Kannagi’s character from the classical Tamil epic Silappatikaram through a contemporary lens, focusing on Indira Parthasarathy’s play “Kongai Thee” (Fire of the Breast). The research explores how literary reconstruction serves as a tool for reinterpreting traditional narratives to address contemporary social issues, particularly women’s position in society. The classical Silappatikaram presents Kannagi as an idealized woman who accepts her husband’s infidelity without question, conforming to ancient Tamil literary conventions about feminine virtue and submission. In contrast, Parthasarathy’s reconstruction presents a more complex Kannagi who questions patriarchal norms, expresses her frustrations, and articulates her suppressed emotions. The study analyzes three key transformations: Kannagi’s direct confrontation with her husband’s behavior, her expression of self-awareness about societal constraints, and the impact of her suppressed feelings on her psyche. Through comparative analysis of character development, dialogue, and thematic elements, this research demonstrates how reconstruction enables authors to critique patriarchal structures while maintaining the narrative’s core elements. The findings reveal that contemporary reconstructions of classical texts serve not merely as adaptations but as vehicles for social commentary and feminist discourse. The study concludes that literary reconstruction reflects changing social values and contributes to evolving perspectives on gender roles, individual agency, and social justice in contemporary Tamil literature.