AZERBAIJANI EPIC FOLKLORE AND TRICKSTER CHARACTERS

Abstract

The object of our research is Azerbaijani epic folklore. Azerbaijani folklore is rich in genre diversity. Epic folklore genres such as fairy tales and epics, as well as proverbs and sayings that reflect folk wisdom, have historically had a strong influence on the folklore and classical literature of neighboring nations. Folklore genres are divided into archaic and contemporary types. Archaic folklore genres include trials, incantations, divinations, oaths, prayers, blessings, and curses. However, this classification is conditional; since the creation process of folklore continues throughout history, new examples are regularly added to these genres. In our research, we mainly focus on epics, fairy tales, legends, anecdotes, and humorous stories. These genres are particularly rich in trickster types and provide characteristic examples in terms of their semantic variety and functional potential. Moreover, in global practice, trickster figures have mostly been studied within these genres. Therefore, the main subject of this research is the analysis of the above-mentioned genres from the perspective of trickster figures. The main objective of our study is to explore the semantic and functional features of trickster characters in Azerbaijani epic folklore. This requires identifying both their general and unique traits from the perspective of folklore specificity. Another key goal is to study the conceptual essence and structural characteristics of the trickster characters created within our epic folklore.  The trickster, as an archetypal character, has appeared in myths and cultures of various peoples. Tricksters, as archetypal figures, appear in the myths of many different cultures. A trickster often crosses or violates both physical and social rules.