Paradigms of the shaman archetype in Azerbaijani folktales

Abstract

A notable characteristic observed in fairy tales is the presence of signs associated with the shaman archetype. These signs indicate traces of shamanism in the structure and characters of fairy tales, as well as symbols reflecting the spiritual and mystical functions of the shaman. Information related to shamanism and its customs has been preserved not only in religious beliefs but also in folklore for centuries. This includes becoming a shaman, the duties of a shaman, death and rebirth, mystical transformations, shape-shifting, and the ability to understand the language of all living beings in nature. Similar features can also be observed in fairy tale heroes, who may acquire the ability to understand the language of plants, animals, and birds, be born through supernatural conception, travel between the celestial, earthly, and underworld realms, experience death and resurrection, and undergo special trials – characteristics associated with the shaman archetype. This study examines the traces of shamanism observed in Azerbaijani fairy tales through a comparative approach.