Introduction : Mr. George L. Hart, a linguistic anthropologist, has made an attempt to make a comparative analysis of classical languages of the world. In response to Prof. Maraimalai’s request, the author, after a meticulous analysis of world’s classical languages writes about the position of Tamil, which is the best among the equals.
Eligibility of the scholar : Prof. George L. Hart is heading the Department of Tamil in the University of Carolina, Berkeley, since 1975. Currently he holds the Tamil chair there. He has done his degree in Sanskrit in Harward. Initially, he was appointed as Professor of Sanskrit in the University of Wisconsin, Madison, in 1969. Besides Tamil and Sanskrit, the author is well-versed in Greek and Latin. He has read extensively in their literature in the original. He has a strong grounding in the comparative linguistics and literatures of modem Europe. In recognition of his deep knowledge of Indian classical languages, he was conferred Padma Shri award, the third highest civilian honour.
Tamil – A classical language with classical tradition and literature :
Three most important things according to the author make Tamil indisputably the best classical language in the world in comparison with Greek, Latin, Arabic and Sanskrit. The first is its antiquity. Sangam literature and the Pattuppattu date to first two centuries of the current era. Secondly, Tamil possesses indigenous literary tradition independent of Sanskrit or any other Indian languages. | In fact, Tamil has influenced Sanskrit and Malayalam to a great extent. Thirdly, it is fit to stand beside the great literatures of Sanskrit, Greek, Persian and Arabic. The subtlety and profundity of Tamil works, their varied scope and universality qualify Tamil to be rated as one of the greater classical tradition of the world. Thirukkural is one of the world’s greatest work on ethics. It covers every facet of human life.
Meeting all criterion of a classical language :
Tamil is extremely old (i.e.) as old as Latin and older than Arabic. It arose as an entirely independent tradition with almost no influence from Sanskrit or any other Indian Languages. There’s god’s plenty in Tamil literature.
Conclusion : It is established beyond doubt that Tamil is one of the greatest classical languages of the world. It has become a vital and central part of the greatness and richness of Indian culture.
