What are the different types of Tamil writing systems?

Tamil, like many languages, has evolved over time, and various writing systems have been used to represent the Tamil language. The primary types of Tamil writing systems are as follows:

1. Vattezhuthu (வட்டெழுத்து): Vattezhuthu, also known as "Circular Script," is one of the oldest forms of Tamil script. It was used in inscriptions on pottery, stone, and metal during the Sangam period (3rd century BCE to 4th century CE). This script features rounded, circular characters.

2. Brahmi Tamil (பிராமி தமிழ்): Early Tamil inscriptions from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE used a version of the Brahmi script adapted for Tamil. These inscriptions are found in various regions, including Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka.

3. Grantha Script (கிரந்தம்): Grantha script is an important script used to write Sanskrit and Tamil texts. It is a script that incorporates both Tamil and Sanskrit characters, making it suitable for religious and scholarly texts. It was widely used from the 6th century CE onwards.

4. Pallava Script (பல்லவ எழுத்து): The Pallava dynasty played a significant role in the development of Tamil writing systems. The Pallava script is a precursor to modern Tamil script and was used for inscriptions during the Pallava dynasty's rule in Tamil Nadu.

5. Vatteluttu Script (வட்டெழுத்து): Vatteluttu is a script that evolved from Vattezhuthu and was widely used from the 9th to the 14th centuries. It features more angular and linear characters compared to Vattezhuthu.

6. Tamil Script (தமிழ் எழுத்து): The modern Tamil script, known as "Tamil Ezhuthu," is the current and most widely used script for writing Tamil. It has a set of characters representing vowels, consonants, and compound letters and is used for all contemporary Tamil writing, including literature, newspapers, and everyday communication.

7. Modern Tamil Typography (நவீன தமிழ் எழுத்து): In addition to the traditional scripts, modern Tamil typography involves various typefaces and styles used in print and digital media. It includes variations and artistic representations of the Tamil script to create visually appealing text.

8. Tamil Handwriting Styles: Different styles of handwriting are prevalent among Tamil speakers. These can vary from person to person and may include variations in the formation of letters, calligraphy styles, and cursive writing.

While these are the primary writing systems and scripts associated with the Tamil language, it's important to note that the modern Tamil script, also known as Tamil Ezhuthu, is the standard and widely used script for contemporary Tamil writing and communication. The other scripts and writing systems are of historical and cultural significance and are used primarily for scholarly and artistic purposes.