BETWEEN HISTORICAL OGUZNAMES AND TURKISH EPICS PROXIMITY OF SUBJECT AND MOTIF

Abstract

When we examine the history and literature of many peoples in the world, we will see that these peoples created various myths, legends, epics and narratives about their states and dynasties. This fact can be explained by a number of reasons. First of all, in the times we are talking about, the mythological outlook existed to one degree or another. From this point of view, it was natural at that time to have myths about any subject. Secondly, this issue was related to the attempt of many nations to trace the history of their states and ruling dynasties back to more ancient times. The first reason was a general one related to people's worldview, and the second reason was a political-ideological reason that aimed to give some kind of officiality to the state and dynasty. For example, the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, etc. nations created myths that elevated their rulers to the level of God or his son. It is possible to encounter similar situations in Turkish history, culture, literature, and mythology. Turkish epics such as Alp Er Tunga, Oğuz Kağan, Gray wolf, Descent are examples of these. Oguznames occupy a special place in Turkish literary and political thought. There are notable plot similarities between Oguznames and many Turkish epics. In order to better understand Turkish history, literature and their state politics, a deeper study of the relationship between Turkish epics and Oghuznams is necessary.