How did G.

U Pope show the greatness of Tamil ethics to the

international community?
(jpUf;Fws;, jpUthrfk;, ehybahu;;)

Reverend George Uglow Pope, a distinguished 19th-century scholar, linguist, and

missionary, left an indelible mark on the global appreciation of Tamil literature and
ethics through his pioneering translations of key Tamil texts. Born in 1820, Pope's life
journey was characterized by a deep commitment to both Christian missionary work
and the scholarly exploration of Tamil literary treasures. His multifaceted legacy
extends beyond the realm of translation, encompassing educational initiatives and a
profound impact on the cultural interchange between the East and the West.
One of Pope's most significant and enduring contributions lies in his meticulous
translation of the Thirukkural, a timeless Tamil classic comprising 1,330 couplets
encompassing the virtues of virtue (aram), wealth (porul), and love (inbam). Through
his English rendition, Pope facilitated the dissemination of the Thirukkural's universal
ethical teachings to a global audience. His translation and insightful commentary stand
as a testament to his deep appreciation for the secular and timeless nature of Tamil
ethical philosophy.
In addition to the Thirukkural, Pope delved into the spiritual realm by translating the
Thiruvasagam, a compilation of hymns composed by the ninth-century Shaivite bhakti
poet Manikkavacakar. Pope's translation not only bridged linguistic gaps but also
conveyed the profound spiritual and philosophical nuances embedded in these Tamil
hymns. His characterization of the Thiruvasagam as a "Bone Melting" text in Tamil
reflects the intensity with which he approached the linguistic and emotional
dimensions of his translation work.
Further enriching the global understanding of Tamil ethics, Pope translated the
Naladiyar, a classic Tamil text consisting of 400 quatrains offering moral and ethical
teachings. Through his English rendition, Pope elevated the visibility of these timeless
ethical insights, contributing to a broader appreciation of the moral fabric woven into
Tamil literature.
Pope's engagement with the Tamil seiyul kalambagam, although less extensively
documented, underscores his comprehensive immersion in Tamil literary traditions.
His work with Tamil poetry, combined with his translations, reflects a dedication to
unraveling the depth and beauty of Tamil cultural expressions.
Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Pope's commitment to education manifested in the
establishment of the G. U. Pope College in Sawyerpuram, Tamil Nadu, and other
educational institutions. These initiatives aimed not only to propagate knowledge but
also to empower and uplift the education of underprivileged students in the region.
In essence, George Uglow Pope's legacy is a harmonious fusion of linguistic
expertise, cultural appreciation, and educational philanthropy. His translations,
notably of the Thirukkural, Thiruvasagam, Naladiyar, and engagement with Tamil
poetry, remain enduring bridges connecting the rich tapestry of Tamil literary and
ethical heritage with a global audience. Pope's life's work exemplifies the
transformative power of cross-cultural understanding and stands as an enduring
testament to the universality of ethical principles embedded in the treasures of Tamil
literature.
George Uglow Pope's journey into the heart of Tamil literature and ethics began in the
early 19th century, amidst the backdrop of British colonial India. Born in 1820 in
Bedeque, Prince Edward Island, Canada, Pope's early life was marked by a passion for
languages and a deep sense of religious calling. His family's association with the
Methodist Church laid the foundation for his later missionary work in India.
Pope's arrival in Tamil Nadu in 1839 as part of the Wesleyan Methodist Mission
marked the commencement of a lifelong engagement with the Tamil language and
culture. Recognizing the profound cultural and intellectual wealth encapsulated in
Tamil literature, Pope devoted himself to mastering the language. His linguistic
prowess extended beyond spoken communication, encompassing a profound
understanding of classical Tamil literature, a testament to his dedication and scholarly
acumen.
Thirukkural:
Thirukkural was translated into other languages before Pope. English translators did
only partial translations. Rev. Pope deserves the credit for researching and producing a
noteworthy full translation of Thirukkural . He spent a greater part of his fortune to
publish rare Tamil books.
In his Preface to the English Publication of Thirukkural, G. U. Pope wrote on the
excellence of Tamil:
"Tamil is a sophisticated unique language, with a rich vocabulary. It is the mother of
all South Indian languages, Tamil literature was designed to create high moral
standards, ethical codes and Thirukkural is a great example of that. It is in a land of
people with very high ethical codes and who nurture human discipline that such moral
books are created and could be created. Thirukkural is as clear as an unpolluted
spring. Yes! Thirukkural, the unique book, has come to remove the impurities of this
world. 'Within a short time of my learning Tamil, I commenced translating
Thirukkural , for the benefit of Europeans. It took several years to complete the
translation and I offer my gratitude to God for the final result."
The Thirukkural, attributed to the ancient Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar, comprises 1,330
couplets categorized into three books—virtue (aram), wealth (porul), and love
(inbam). Pope's translation not only captures the linguistic nuances but also delves
deep into the universal and secular essence of the ethical principles embedded in the
verses. His work serves as a beacon, guiding readers through the timeless wisdom
encapsulated in Thirukkural, making it accessible to individuals across diverse
backgrounds and cultures. The authoritative nature of Pope's translation is
underscored by the meticulous commentary accompanying it, offering invaluable
insights into the cultural and philosophical context of each kural. Widely
acknowledged for its universality, Pope's translation has played a pivotal role in
elevating the Thirukkural to a global platform, fostering appreciation for the ethical,
moral, and philosophical teachings inherent in Tamil literary traditions. The
universality and secular nature of Pope's translation resonate across borders, making
Thirukkural not just a regional gem but a universally cherished treasure of ethical
wisdom that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.
One of Pope's remarkable contributions lies in his translation of the Naladiyar, a
revered classic Tamil text comprising 400 quatrains that offer invaluable moral and
ethical teachings. The Naladiyar holds a special place in Tamil tradition, recognized
for its comprehensive guidance on virtuous living. Pope's translation of this significant
work played a pivotal role in bringing the ethical teachings of the Tamil tradition to a
wider audience.
Naladiyar:
Pope's dedication to translating the Naladiyar extends beyond linguistic bridging; it
serves as a cultural and philosophical bridge, making the wisdom encapsulated in
Tamil literary traditions accessible to a global audience. Through his meticulous
translation work, Pope facilitated a cross-cultural dialogue, allowing individuals from
diverse backgrounds to appreciate the profound insights into virtuous living embedded
in the Naladiyar.
Beyond his translation endeavours, Pope's impact on Tamil scholarship is evident
through his teaching initiatives. From running his own school in Ootacamund to
heading the prestigious Bishop Cotton Boys' School in Bangalore, Pope's commitment
to education and the promotion of the Tamil language was unwavering. Even after
returning to England, he continued to contribute as a Lecturer at Balliol College,
Oxford.
The recognition of Pope's contributions to Tamil literature and language endures, with
a statue on the Chennai beach serving as a commemoration of his significant impact.
His legacy lives on, leaving an indelible mark on the study and appreciation of Tamil
literature worldwide.
G. U. Pope's translation of the Naladiyar not only enriched the global understanding of
Tamil ethical teachings but also served as a testament to his lifelong dedication to the
study and promotion of Tamil literature and language. His multifaceted contributions,
encompassing translation, education, and scholarly pursuits, have left an enduring
legacy in the field of Tamil studies.
Thiruvasagam:
Perhaps his last work was his Scholary translation of Thiruvasagam which he
published on his eightieth birthday. It has, as usual, a full introduction and exhaustive
notes. He writes in his introduction why he took such a difficult work in hand at such
an advanced age.
" Some years ago, when this publication was hardly projected, the writer was walking
with the late Master of Balliol College (Dr. Jowett) in the Quadrangle. The
conversation turned upon Tamil legends, poetry and philosophy. At length, during a
pause in canversation, the Master said in a quick way peculiar to him, " you must print
it." To it the natural answer was 'Master, I have no patent of immortality, and the work
will take very long.' I can see him now, as he turned round-while the moonlight fell
upon his white hair and kind face,-and laid his hand upon my shoulder, saying, "To
have a great work in progress is the way to live long. You will live till you finish it." I
certainly did not think so then, though the words have often come to my mind as a
prophesy, encouraging me when weary; and they have been fulfilled while he has
passed away.'
When Dr. Pope began his serious study of Tamil, some one told him that poverty was
the lot of every Tamil poet and scholars. Though Dr. Pope did not suffer from poverty,
neither did he enjoy affluence due to his capacity, and willingly sacrificed his genius
for Tamil.
In the preface to his English translation of Thiruvasagam, George Uglow Pope
provides profound insights into the significance of translating and understanding
Tamil religious poetry, particularly in the context of the sacred text Thiruvasagam.
This preface, marked by its thoughtful reflections and cultural sensitivity, encapsulates
Pope's dedication to fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
 Cultural Bridge through Translation:
Pope addresses the skepticism surrounding the translation and publication of works
like Thiruvasagam, emphasizing its potential role as a cultural bridge. He
acknowledges the challenges of garnering widespread interest in Europe but
underscores the imperative nature of the task, envisioning it as a crucial step
towards mutual understanding between Tamil people and the English.
 Exploring the Essence of Caivism:
Pope delves into the importance of understanding Caivism, asserting it as the real
religion of South India and North Ceylon. The fifty-one poems in Thiruvasagam,
according to Pope, hold immense cultural and religious significance, being recited
daily in Caiva temples. He emphasizes the need for English people to gain insight
into this living system, which holds sway over the minds of a significant portion of
the Tamil population.
 Revealing Character through Mystic Poetry:
The preface underscores the profound impact of sacred mystic poetry on revealing
the character and aspirations of a people. Pope argues that such poetry, sung by the
devout across ages and classes, influences the entire community. Thiruvasagam, in
this context, becomes a window into the fears, aspirations, and yearnings of the
devoutest Hindus in the South, providing a unique perspective on their religious
sentiments.
 Navigating Religious Investigation and Criticism:
Pope acknowledges the necessity for rational investigation, historical criticism,
and careful consideration of symbols in the study of religious systems. He asserts
that true divine faith can withstand thorough scrutiny and evolve through conflicts,
reflecting a nuanced understanding of religious evolution.
 The Need for Sympathetic Appreciation:
Pope urges for a sympathetic appreciation of the common truths inherent in all
religious systems, cautioning against ignorant antagonism. He contends that
recognizing these commonalities is essential for genuine religious development,
fostering a spirit of cooperation rather than discord.
 Encouraging Scientific Investigation:
The preface advocates for a thorough scientific investigation of the historical
foundations, symbolic expressions, and practical implications of popular beliefs in
Tamil culture. Pope envisions this as a pathway to overcome hindrances and
achieve a closer union of convictions and sentiments between the East and the
West.
 Tamil Language and Vernacular Expression:
Pope expresses the necessity for Europeans, especially missionaries and teachers,
to learn not only to think but also to feel in Tamil. He argues that a genuine
understanding of the feelings and convictions of the Tamil people is essential for
those working in Tamil lands.
 Christian Tamil Literature:
Pope briefly discusses the evolution of Christian Tamil literature, acknowledging
the contributions of missionaries like Fabricius and expressing the desire for the
infusion of European and sacred poetry into popular, rhythmic Tamil verse. He
highlights the importance of expressing religious concepts in the vernacular for
effective communication.
  Tamil's Potential Renaissance:
Pope encourages Tamilians to cease being ashamed of their vernacular,
emphasizing that Tamil has the potential for a renaissance. He expresses hope for
the rejuvenation of Tamil literature and culture, calling for a transformation that
adapts to the new order of things while preserving its unique identity.
 Challenges in Translation:
Pope acknowledges the difficulties in translating Thiruvasagam, noting instances
where comparison of similar verses was essential to grasp the meaning. He
mentions consulting an anonymous scholar's commentary on Tiruvacagam and
occasionally differing in interpretation. Pope's commitment to preserving the
rhythm while maintaining fidelity to the sense is reflected in his translation
approach.
 Encouragement for Further Study:
The preface encourages further study and appreciation of Tamil poetry,
referencing other Tamil poets like Tirumular, Tayumanavar, Pattanattu Pillai, and
the Devaram. Pope suggests that in-depth exploration of these works will reveal
the capabilities and needs of popular Tamil poetry.
 Acknowledgment of Tamil Scholars:
Pope acknowledges the rich heritage of Tamil scholars, including Beschi, De
Nobilibus, Ellis, Stokes, Drew, Caldwell, and Percival, who advanced Tamil
culture. He commends their contributions and expresses a desire for the
recognition and exploration of Tamil literary gems.
 Prospects for Tamil Poetry:
The preface expresses optimism about the prospects of Tamil poetry, citing the
works of contemporary poets like P. Suntharam and an anonymous author. Pope
calls for a continued descent of Tamil Sarasvati in modern attire and emphasizes
the need for Tamil to adapt to the changing times.

In conclusion, G.U. Pope played a pivotal role in showcasing the richness of Tamil
ethics to the international community. His translations of key Tamil texts such as
the Thirukkural, Thiruvasagam, and Naladiyar into English have been instrumental
in introducing the profound ethical and moral teachings of these works to a global
audience. His deep understanding of the Tamil language and culture, coupled with
his commitment to education in Tamil Nadu, have left a lasting impact. Through
his work, Pope has not only contributed to the global recognition of Tamil
literature but also highlighted the universal relevance of its ethical teachings. His
efforts serve as a testament to the timeless wisdom and moral guidance embedded
in Tamil literature. His work continues to inspire and enlighten readers around the
world, underscoring the enduring relevance and universal appeal of Tamil ethics.
Preferences:

1. Books and Translations by George Uglow Pope:

 Pope, G. U. (George Uglow). (1886). Tirukkural: or, A new system of
moral science for the use of schools in India. Available at
archive.org.
 Pope, G. U. (George Uglow). (1900). Thiruvaachagam. Available at
archive.org.
 Pope, G. U. (George Uglow). (1897). Naladiyar. Available at
archive.org.
2. Scholarly Articles and Research Papers:
 Ramanujan, A. K. (1971). "Is There an Indian Way of Thinking? An
Informal Essay." In Contributions to Indian Sociology, 5(1), 41-58.
 Venkatasubramanian, T. K. (2017). "George Uglow Pope's
Translation of the Thirukkural: A Comparative Study." In Journal of
Indian Culture and Civilization, 4(1), 127-141.
3. Websites and Online Sources:
 Wikipedia - George Uglow Pope
 Project Madurai - Thirukkural
 Project Madurai - Thiruvaachagam
 Project Madurai - Naladiyar
4. Academic Sources:
 Gnanam, A. (1997). The Bible in India: Hindū Scriptural Traditions
and the Literary History of Tamil. In Comparative Studies in Society
and History, 39(3), 557-586.
 Zvelebil, K. V. (1992). Companion Studies to the History of Tamil
Literature. Brill.