The Tamil language is of ancient antiquity, and the chronology of its evolution from the proto-dravidian through the proto-South Dravidian spans several millennia. The Tamil script is relatively more recent.

The script of a language is largely determined by various factors, and its evolution has a bearing on the interaction of such factors. One has to take note of the geographical and topographical features of the regions where the writings are available, the materials used for engraving or writing records, the chronological factors, the political, religious, and social influence of the age, and so on.

The systematic study of the scripts is known to archaeologists as paleography. We have a rich collection of writings on rocks, metals, and palm leaves. A study of the numerous inscriptions in different regions reveals how the scripts in the various regions differ not only due to differences in the tools and surfaces but also due to the whims and tastes of the scribe and sculptor and to political, religious, and social factors of the period.