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    Published: 2025-10-30
    No. 13 (2025)

    Symbolism and Functions of Marriage Motifs in Turkic Epics and Selected European Works (Fairy Tales, Legends) and Their Transformation in Modern Narrative Fiction

    Kamila Talieva , Zhainagul Sadykbek kyzy , Ainur Kanybekova , Samat Zhumaliev , Gulzada Stanalieva
    Papers in Literature
    Section: Between countries
    https://doi.org/10.31648/pl.11878

    Abstract

    This article examines the symbolism and societal roles of marriage motifs in the epic traditions of Turkic and European cultures, with a primary focus on fairy tales and legends. It offers a comparative analysis of recurring marriage motifs, including heroic trials, magical unions, and socially strategic marriages, demonstrating how these themes reflect cultural values, collective identity, and social cohesion. Special attention is given to the socio-political and ethical dimensions of marriage in Turkic epics, where partnerships frequently represent tribal unity and legitimacy, in contrast to the personal, moral, and transformational elements seen in European narratives. The article also explores the reworking of these motifs in Kyrgyz novels, particularly in the writings of Chingiz Aitmatov. In this context, marriage motifs from oral epic traditions are reinterpreted to address current issues such as modernisation, cultural identity, and gender roles. By analysing the preservation and adaptation of classic story structures, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the continuity and evolution of marriage symbols across diverse genres and cultural settings.

    Keywords:

    cultural symbols, folklore plots, social rituals, social structures, cultural heritage, archetypes

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    Citation rules

    Talieva, K., Sadykbek kyzy, Z. ., Kanybekova, A., Zhumaliev, S. ., & Stanalieva, G. . (2025). Symbolism and Functions of Marriage Motifs in Turkic Epics and Selected European Works (Fairy Tales, Legends) and Their Transformation in Modern Narrative Fiction. Papers in Literature, (13), 215–238. https://doi.org/10.31648/pl.11878

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