UPSC Malayalam Literature Syllabus 2025 For Paper 1 and 2

UPSC Malayalam Literature Syllabus 2025: UPSC Malayalam Literature Optional Syllabus covers a wide range of literary sources of Malayalam Literature, from modern writings to ancient origins. The syllabus has been designed to evaluate the knowledge and skills of students in Malayalam Literature, critical thinking and understanding of linguistic and cultural contexts of the language. Important literary works, theories and historical evolution of Malayalam language are covered in this optional subject. In this article, we are going to cover the syllabus of Malayalam Literature.

UPSC Malayalam Literature Syllabus 2025 Overview

The UPSC Malayalam Literature Optional Syllabus is subdivided into two papers- Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 of the syllabus covers historical and linguistic evolution of the language, classical base, major dialects and important forms of literature. Paper 2 covers literary criticism and modern forms of literature. Students who are well-versed in Malayalam Literature can highly benefit from this optional paper.

UPSC Optional Malayalam Syllabus for Paper 1

Malayalam Optional Literature Paper 1 covers the study of creation and innovation of Tamil – Malayalam age and the history and development of the language. The study of the history and development of the Malayalam language requires a comprehensive understanding of its evolution—from the Tamil-Malayalam phase to its modern form. Aspirants must explore the major linguistic shifts and external influences that have shaped the language over time.

In the realm of medieval and modern Malayalam literature, candidates are expected to delve into the works of prominent literary figures from different eras. This includes classical poets like Thunchath Ezhuthachan, and modern stalwarts such as Kumaran Asan and Vallathol Narayana Menon, examining their thematic depth and stylistic contributions.

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The syllabus also emphasizes the evolution of various literary forms—ranging from classical poetry and prose romances to folk narratives—tracing their development through historical and cultural contexts. Special focus is given to seminal works and authors whose contributions have had a lasting impact on the Malayalam literary tradition.

UPSC Malayalam Literature Syllabus 2025 for Paper 2

Paper 2 of the Malayalam Literature Optional for UPSC focuses on literary criticism and modern Malayalam literature. Aspirants are expected to be well-versed in diverse schools of literary criticism, including both classical Indian theories and modern Western approaches. Emphasis is placed on understanding critical methodologies and applying them effectively to Malayalam literary texts.

The paper involves a detailed analysis of major contemporary Malayalam writers, with attention to their thematic concerns, narrative styles, and socio-political contexts. It covers modern poetry, prose, and drama from the 19th century to the present, helping candidates trace key literary movements and stylistic developments.

Special focus is given to select works by prominent authors such as O.V. Vijayan, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, and Kamala Suraiyya, enabling candidates to critically engage with their narrative techniques and thematic explorations that have shaped modern Malayalam literature.

UPSC Malayalam Optional Literature Important Books

Some books that would be necessary to read for a good understanding of Malayalam literature are:

• P.K. Parameswaran Nair’s “Kerala Sahitya Charitram” 
• M. Leelavathy’s “Malayalam Literary Criticism” 
• “Kumaran Asaninte Kavithakal” 
• “Modern Malayalam Poetry” by Ayyappa Paniker 
• Selected works of O.V. Vijayan, M.T. Vasudevan Nair, and Kamala Suraiyya