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M-A-MALAYALAM in Malayalam at University of Calicut
Malappuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Malayalam at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This M.A. Malayalam program at the University of Calicut focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of Malayalam language, literature, culture, and critical theories. It emphasizes both classical and modern literary traditions, fostering a deep appreciation for the rich heritage while exploring contemporary perspectives. The program is crucial for preserving and promoting regional languages and cultures within the diverse Indian academic landscape, addressing a consistent demand for experts in language, media, and cultural studies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates holding a B.A. in Malayalam or any B.A./B.Sc. degree with sufficient Malayalam language background, seeking to delve deeper into literary scholarship and research. It caters to aspiring teachers, researchers, content creators, journalists, and cultural practitioners. Individuals passionate about the nuances of language, critical analysis, and cultural preservation will find this program rewarding, providing a robust academic foundation for various language-centric professions.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as college/university lecturers (after NET/SET), literary critics, content writers, editors in publishing houses, journalists, and cultural officers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in academia and specialized content development. The program also aligns with opportunities in translation services, regional media houses, and government language departments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Classical Texts and Foundational Theories- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant time to deeply studying classical Malayalam poetry and prose, alongside foundational literary theories. Engage in extensive reading of prescribed texts and critical commentaries to build a strong base. Form study groups to discuss complex linguistic and literary concepts, ensuring a clear understanding of the historical evolution of Malayalam language and literature.
Tools & Resources
University library, departmental archives, online academic journals, peer study groups, faculty office hours
Career Connection
A strong foundation in classical literature and language evolution is crucial for academic research, teaching positions, and content roles requiring historical context or linguistic expertise, improving chances for competitive exams like NET/SET.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1)
Actively practice critical reading by analyzing texts from multiple perspectives, identifying literary devices, themes, and underlying socio-cultural contexts. Participate regularly in seminars and class discussions, presenting your interpretations and engaging in scholarly debates. Write comprehensive analytical essays on classical works to hone your critical thinking and articulate your insights effectively.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, online dictionaries for literary terms, workshops on critical analysis, feedback from professors
Career Connection
Sharp analytical skills are invaluable for literary criticism, research, content development, and journalism, enhancing your ability to evaluate information and construct compelling narratives, which are highly sought after in professional communication roles.
Engage with Linguistic Principles- (Semester 1)
Pay close attention to the evolution of Malayalam language, grammar, and phonetics discussed in class. Attempt to identify linguistic patterns and historical changes in the texts you read. Utilize supplementary grammar resources and linguistic textbooks to solidify your understanding. Practicing grammatical analysis and etymology of words will be beneficial.
Tools & Resources
Standard Malayalam grammar books (e.g., A.R. Rajaraja Varma''''s Keralapanineeyam), online linguistic forums, language learning apps for historical context
Career Connection
A deep understanding of linguistics is essential for research in language studies, lexicography, translation, and teaching. It prepares you for roles that require precise language usage and an understanding of its structure and history.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Modern Literary Trends and Theories- (Semester 2)
Beyond core texts, explore a wide range of modern Malayalam poetry and prose, and delve into contemporary Western literary theories like structuralism, feminism, and postmodernism. Attend literary festivals, book launches, and university colloquiums to stay updated on current literary discourse and engage with contemporary authors and critics.
Tools & Resources
Contemporary literary magazines (e.g., Bhashaposhini, Mathrubhumi Azhchapathippu), literary journals, critical theory anthologies, university seminars
Career Connection
Familiarity with modern trends and theories is vital for roles in journalism, media, content curation, and publishing, allowing you to interpret and contribute to current literary and cultural debates.
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 2)
Seek connections between Malayalam literature and other disciplines like folklore, culture, and media studies. Analyze how literary works reflect broader cultural narratives or how media influences literary reception. This interdisciplinary approach will broaden your analytical toolkit and enhance your ability to interpret complex societal issues through a literary lens.
Tools & Resources
Interdisciplinary academic journals, cultural studies texts, film studies resources, discussions with students from other humanities disciplines
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary mindset is highly valued in fields like cultural heritage management, media analysis, policy research, and think tanks, enabling you to bring a holistic perspective to real-world problems.
Network with Literary Scholars and Practitioners- (Semester 2)
Actively engage with faculty members, guest lecturers, and visiting scholars. Attend workshops on academic writing and research presentation. Seek opportunities to volunteer at literary events or departmental activities. Building these professional relationships can open doors for mentorship, research collaborations, and future career guidance.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, university event calendars, LinkedIn profiles of scholars, professional literary associations
Career Connection
Networking provides insights into various career paths, potential mentorship, and can lead to recommendations for internships or job opportunities in academia, publishing, or media, helping you navigate the Indian literary ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Research and Dissertation Development- (Semester 3-4)
Identify a specific area of interest within Malayalam literature or language and begin preliminary research for your dissertation/project. Engage deeply with research methodology, data collection, and academic writing. Work closely with your faculty advisor, regularly seeking feedback and refining your research questions. Aim for original contribution.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, citation management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), university research ethics guidelines, peer review groups
Career Connection
A well-researched dissertation demonstrates critical thinking, analytical depth, and independent research capability, essential for higher academic pursuits (Ph.D.), research roles, and any profession requiring rigorous investigation and clear communication.
Gain Practical Experience through Electives and Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Choose electives that align with your career aspirations, such as Literary Translation, Manuscriptology, or Film and Visual Culture, to develop specialized skills. Actively seek out internships with publishing houses, media organizations, cultural archives, or translation agencies. This hands-on experience will provide practical application of your academic knowledge.
Tools & Resources
University career services, departmental internship coordinators, professional organizations in literary and media fields, online job portals focused on humanities
Career Connection
Practical experience is critical for bridging the gap between academia and industry. Internships boost your resume, provide industry contacts, and often lead to full-time employment opportunities in specific niches like translation, content editing, or archival work within the Indian market.
Enhance Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Prepare rigorously for your Viva Voce by reviewing all aspects of your M.A. curriculum and practicing presenting your research findings concisely and confidently. Participate in departmental seminars or conferences to present papers. Develop strong verbal and written communication skills, which are paramount for any professional role, especially in academia, media, or public relations.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking workshops, presentation software, mock interviews, feedback from peers and mentors, academic conference attendance
Career Connection
Excellent communication and presentation skills are universally valued. For M.A. Malayalam graduates, these are vital for teaching, delivering lectures, participating in literary discussions, media appearances, and effectively communicating complex ideas in any professional setting, significantly impacting placement success.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Any candidate who has passed BA Malayalam with at least 45% marks or any BA/BSc degree with 45% marks for Part I or Part III Malayalam/Indian Language/Common course/Complementary course or BA/BSc degree with Malayalam as an additional optional subject or BA/BSc degree with 45% marks for one paper in Malayalam language or BA/BSc with 45% marks for General English in Calicut University or any other University recognized as equivalent thereto by the University of Calicut.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLM1C01 | Classical Poetry | Core | 4 | Ancient Malayalam Poetry, Ramacharitam, Krishnagadha, Kannassa Ramayanam, Cherussery, Ezhuthachan |
| MLM1C02 | Classical Prose | Core | 4 | Early Malayalam Prose, Kautalyam, Bhashakautalyam, Brahmandapuranam, Attaprakaram, Kramadipika |
| MLM1C03 | Evolution of Malayalam Language | Core | 4 | Origin of Malayalam, Theories of Malayalam origin, Dravidian languages, Grantha script, Old Malayalam, Middle Malayalam, Modern Malayalam |
| MLM1C04 | Poetics - Indian | Core | 4 | Natyashastra, Rasasutra, Dhwani Siddhanta, Auchitya Siddhanta, Vakrokti Jeevitham, Sanskrit Poetics |
| MLM1C05 | Malayalam Literary Criticism | Core | 4 | Early criticism, Western influence, Romantic criticism, Marxist criticism, Feminist criticism, Postmodern criticism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLM2C06 | Modern Poetry | Core | 4 | Romantic poetry, Khandakavyam, Mahakavyam, Modernism, Postmodernism, Major poets of 20th century |
| MLM2C07 | Modern Prose | Core | 4 | Novel, Short Story, Essay, Travelogue, Biography, Autobiography, Modern trends in Malayalam prose |
| MLM2C08 | Folklore, Culture and Media Studies | Core | 4 | Folklore theories, Oral traditions, Folk art forms, Kerala culture, Media studies, Traditional media |
| MLM2C09 | Literary Theory - Western | Core | 4 | Structuralism, Post-structuralism, Deconstruction, Feminism, Postcolonialism, Psychoanalytic criticism |
| MLM2C10 | History of Malayalam Literature | Core | 4 | Ancient period, Medieval period, Modern period, Major literary movements, Literary genres, Contribution of various authors |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLM3C11 | Dramaturgy and Performance Studies | Core | 4 | Indian dramaturgy, Western dramaturgy, Sanskrit drama, Malayalam drama, Performance theories, Folk theatre |
| MLM3C12 | Grammar and Linguistics | Core | 4 | Phonetics, Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, History of linguistics, Malayalam grammar |
| MLM3C13 | Comparative Literature | Core | 4 | Theories of comparative literature, Influence studies, Analogy studies, Translation studies, World literature, Indian literature |
| MLM3E01 | Manuscriptology and Archival Studies | Elective | 4 | Manuscript conservation, Paleography, Epigraphy, Archival methods, Digital humanities, Kerala manuscripts |
| MLM3E02 | Literary Translation | Elective | 4 | Theories of translation, Types of translation, Cultural aspects, Problems in translation, Translation criticism, Malayalam translations |
| MLM3E03 | Modern Sanskrit Literature | Elective | 4 | History of modern Sanskrit literature, Major poets, Dramatists, Prose writers, Modern trends, Kerala''''s contribution |
| MLM3E04 | Dalit Literature | Elective | 4 | Dalit literary theories, History of Dalit literature, Major Dalit writers, Protest literature, Identity politics, Malayalam Dalit literature |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLM4C14 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research types, Data collection, Research design, Thesis writing, Citation methods, Plagiarism, Literary research |
| MLM4C15 | Film and Visual Culture | Core | 4 | History of cinema, Film theories, Malayalam cinema, Visual arts, Cultural studies, Aesthetics of film, Documentary |
| MLM4C16 | Project / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research proposal, Literature review, Data analysis, Report writing, Thesis presentation, Original contribution |
| MLM4C17 | Viva Voce | Core | 4 | Comprehensive understanding of M.A. Malayalam curriculum, Presentation of project, General knowledge in Malayalam literature |
| MLM4E05 | Travel Literature | Elective | 4 | History of travel literature, Theories of travel writing, Major travel writers, Malayalam travelogues, Cultural representation, Travel and identity |
| MLM4E06 | Eco-criticism | Elective | 4 | Environmental humanities, Theories of eco-criticism, Nature in literature, Ecological consciousness, Green literature, Malayalam eco-literature |
| MLM4E07 | Gender Studies in Literature | Elective | 4 | Feminist theories, Gender identity, Patriarchy, Representation of gender, Queer theory, Malayalam women''''s writing |
| MLM4E08 | Popular Culture Studies | Elective | 4 | Theories of popular culture, Mass media, Consumerism, Fan culture, Subcultures, Malayalam popular culture |
