UPSC Kannada Literature Syllabus PDF Download - UPSC Kannada Syllabus

The UPSC Kannada Literature Syllabus for the Civil Services Examination 2025 is based on testing the knowledge and appreciation of a candidate in Kannada literature, which covers classical heritage and modern literary trends. The Kannada Literature UPSC syllabus has critical evaluations and historical development in the Kannada language that provides a wide scope to the literary study.

Candidates fluent in Kannada have a good opportunity to choose Kannada Literature to be their Optional Subject for UPSC Exam. The literature subjects such as Kannada Literature generally have less competition making it relatively easier to score. This article provides detailed insights into the Kannada Literature Optional Syllabus for UPSC. 

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Overview of Kannada Literature Syllabus for UPSC

The Kannada Literature UPSC syllabus is divided into two papers, with a total of 250 marks. Paper 1 of the Kannada UPSC syllabus carries the historical and linguistic evolution of Kannada, containing all important dialects and important works of literature, from classical to medieval times. It carries contributions of the classical poets and the evolution of various forms of literature. Paper 2 of the IAS Kannada Literature syllabus contains a concentration of modern Kannada literature that deals with poetry, prose, drama, and criticism. Contemporary Kannada literature and writers requires an in-depth study of contribution made towards Kannada and the analytical study of recent trends followed in literature.

UPSC Mains Kannada Literature Syllabus PDF Download!

Kannada Literature Syllabus for IAS Optional Paper 1

The history and development of Kannada language under Paper 1 of the Kannada Literature syllabus for UPSC covers the origin and evolution of Kannada, how Kannada passed through evolution from Old Kannada, and its continued existence until the present era. Candidates are expected to study changes in linguistic elements and incorporation of other forms of elements. The chapter on classical and medieval Kannada literature discusses critical issues such as the role of major poets such as Pampa and Ranna and important medieval writers such as Harihara and Raghavanka. A more specific study is there on their thematic contribution as well as stylistic characteristics. Forms of Kannada literature components involve in an analysis of historical developments as well as the cultural value of different kinds of Kannada literature- including the classical poetry, vachanas, folk literature etc. It has covered significant works and literary movements, which also involve a discussion of all the crucial literary texts and movements that have shaped the Kannada literature and so requires the understanding of historical significance as well as greater cultural impact.

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Kannada Literature Syllabus for IAS Optional Paper 2

Paper 2 of the UPSC Kannada syllabus involves literary criticism and modern Kannada literature. Candidate needs to understand various theories of literary criticism and their critical approach. It deals with both traditional Indian perspectives and modern Western perspectives. This will also include how these theories apply to Kannada texts. The study of prominent modern Kannada writers involves the extensive study of major authors and poets, discussing their themes, narrative techniques, and socio-political reflections in their works. The modern Kannada poetry, prose, and drama section has a detailed study of major literary works from the 19th century onwards and focuses on the development of literary styles and movements. This includes the critical analysis of selected works by notable authors like Kuvempu, U.R. Ananthamurthy, and Girish Karnad on how they contributed to Kannada literature and the larger literary movements.

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List of Books for Kannada Literature UPSC Syllabus

Books recommended for the preparation of the Kannada Optional UPSC syllabus in depth are:

• "Kannada Sahitya Charitre" by R.S. Mugali, which gives a powerful history of Kannada literature.
• "Samsa Padya Sahitya Charitre" by T.V. Venkatachala Sharma focuses on the development of Kannada poetry.
• K. Venkatarama Gowda's "Modern Kannada Literature" is essential for understanding modern literary forms.
• B.V. Karanth's "Kannada Nataka" deals with critical analysis of Kannada drama.
• For Paper 2, it would be essential to read the selected works of Kuvempu, U.R. Ananthamurthy, and Girish Karnad to gain knowledge of the important literary texts and authors.

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Now that you have a fair idea about the UPSC Kannada Literature Syllabus and exam pattern of the Optional Subjects exam, you can start your preparation now. Download the Testbook App now and access the best online learning resources curated by experts.