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A STUDY ON MULLAI TINAI IN “THE WOODLANDERS”
DR. REJI K PROF. DR. STEPHANE NARCIS
Abstract:
Thomas Hardy's The Woodlanders transcends the boundaries of a simple love story. By incorporating the concept of tinai from classical Tamil Sangam literature, Hardy imbues the narrative with a deeper layer of emotional resonance. The mullai tinai, representing the melancholic beauty of the forest landscape at dusk, becomes a powerful motif that reflects the yearning and frustrations experienced by the characters. The mullai terrain, characterized by dense forests and twilight hours, perfectly complements the emotional state of the protagonists, particularly Marty South. Marty's love for Giles Winterborne remains unrequited, as his social standing and financial woes prevent him from expressing his feelings. The melancholic beauty of the mullai setting mirrors Marty's longing. Descriptions of the "gloomy woods" and the "waning light" evoke a sense of quiet desperation, mirroring Marty's internal struggle. Furthermore, the traditional associations of the mullai tinai with the jasmine flower and the deer further enhance the portrayal of love and longing. Jasmine, known for its intoxicating fragrance that fades quickly, symbolizes the fleeting nature of hope. The deer, often depicted as separated lovers searching for each other, reinforces the theme of unfulfilled desires. When Marty encounters Giles in the darkening woods, the presence of deer subtly underscores the yearning in their hearts.