0CLASSIFICATION OF MYTHOLOGICAL IMAGES AND MOTIFS (ON THE EXAMPLES OF UZBEK AND ENGLISH LANGUAGES)
Nargiza Khalbaevna Babadjanova
Teacher of the Interfaculty Department of Foreign Languages, Chirchik State
Pedagogical University
ABSTRACT
This review article delves into the rich tapestry of Uzbek and English mythologies by examining and comparing their central mythological images and motifs. Through a systematic classification and comparative analysis, the study highlights how these cultural symbols encapsulate and convey the values, historical experiences, and societal norms of their respective cultures. It explores the representation of universal themes such as heroism, morality, and community through culturally specific lenses, revealing both unique perspectives and shared human concerns across cultural boundaries. The article underscores the importance of mythological studies in understanding cultural identities and fostering intercultural appreciation and dialogue.
Keywords: mythology, cultural studies, comparative analysis, uzbek mythology, English mythology, mythological motifs, cultural identity, intercultural understanding.
Introduction
Mythological motifs are essential in cultural studies as they offer profound insights into the collective psyche and values of societies. These motifs, encapsulating heroes, gods, and mythical creatures, not only entertain but also serve educational and moral functions, reflecting and shaping the societal norms and historical experiences of a culture.
Uzbek mythology, rich in oral traditions and folk tales, shares some similarities with the broader Turkic mythology, featuring characters and stories that embody the values and challenges of nomadic and later settled societies. In contrast, English mythology, with its blend of Celtic, Anglo-Saxon, and Norman elements, provides a diverse palette of myths that have significantly influenced Western literature and culture.
This review aims to classify and analyze the mythological images and motifs present in Uzbek and English cultures. By examining how these motifs function within their respective cultural narratives, the review seeks to understand their roles
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and significance and draw comparisons to highlight how cultural contexts shape mythological narratives. This comparative analysis will not only contribute to the field of cultural studies but also deepen the understanding of how myths convey universal themes through culturally unique symbols and stories.
Methodology
The selection of mythological images and motifs for this comparative study focuses on those that are integral to the cultural narratives and have significant representation in folklore and literature. Criteria include the historical depth, cultural significance, representational frequency, and the diversity of interpretation within each culture. These motifs are selected for their ability to illustrate the foundational mythic structures of the respective cultures, as well as their adaptability and transformation over time [9].
The comparative analysis employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining literary criticism, cultural anthropology, and historical analysis. The method involves tracing the origins and evolution of each motif, examining their thematic roles in narratives, and comparing their functions across cultures. This analysis helps in understanding the shared human themes and the unique cultural expressions of each mythology [7].
The classification categories include:
> Heroes: Central figures in myths who embody the cultural virtues and bear significant influence on the myth's moral and narrative structure.
> Villains: Figures that represent challenges or moral opposition within the
myths.
> Mythical Creatures: Non-human entities that symbolize natural forces, moral lessons, or cultural fears.
> Symbols: Objects or signs that hold significant metaphorical meaning relevant to the culture's values and beliefs.
The criteria for classification are based on the origin of the motif (historical, legendary, or literary), its role in folklore (such as moral instruction, cultural reinforcement, or social critique), and its thematic significance (what universal or cultural-specific themes it addresses). These categories help in organizing the motifs in a manner that facilitates comparative analysis, allowing for a deeper understanding of how similar themes are variously represented and understood in different cultural contexts [4].
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Analysis of Uzbek Mythological Motifs
Uzbek folklore is rich with characters and symbols derived from its nomadic and agricultural past. Notable mythological images include the Semurg, a benevolent bird symbolizing purity and protection, and Alpamysh, a central hero in Uzbek epics who embodies the virtues of bravery and loyalty [6; 8].
The Semurg often appears in stories as a guardian figure, illustrating the interconnectedness of humans with nature, a reflection of the historically agrarian Uzbek society. Alpamysh, meanwhile, serves as a cultural icon whose adventures represent the eternal struggle against tyranny and injustice, echoing the values and historical struggles of the Uzbek people [8].
Similar motifs can be found in other Turkic cultures, such as the Kazakh Kokpar and the Kyrgyz Manas, which also feature heroes with attributes similar to Alpamysh. This cross-cultural presence underscores shared historical and cultural narratives among the Turkic peoples [6].
Analysis of English Mythological Motifs
Key figures in English mythology include King Arthur, symbolizing chivalric and national ideals, and mythical creatures like dragons, which often represent chaos and conflict but are also symbols of power and protection.
King Arthur, possibly based on a real historical figure, has evolved in literature to embody the ideal king, whose reign is marked by peace and justice. Dragons, prevalent in many myths, are often foes vanquished by heroes such as St. George, highlighting themes of heroism and moral conflict [10].
Arthurian legends share similarities with Celtic myths, where magical swords and mystical knights are common, reflecting broader European motifs of heroism and royalty. Dragons are a near-universal motif in Western and Eastern cultures, although their interpretations as malevolent vary [5].
Comparative Analysis
Mythological motifs such as the dragon in English mythology and the serpent in Uzbek tales often carry different meanings influenced by their cultural contexts. While the dragon often symbolizes chaos or malice in Western narratives, symbolized by St. George slaying the dragon, Uzbek tales may present serpents as wisdom symbols, closely tied to the earth and fertility [2].
Both cultures use mythological motifs to express universal human concerns— such as heroism, morality, and the metaphysical—but the portrayal varies significantly. For example, the hero motif, as seen in characters like King Arthur and
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Alpamysh, emphasizes moral integrity and bravery but is tailored to fit the societal values and historical experiences of their respective cultures [1].
These motifs serve as a mirror reflecting the underlying values and priorities of a culture. For instance, the prominence of dragons and mythical beasts in English tales could be seen as a manifestation of societal fears of invasion and conflict, a recurring theme in British history. Conversely, Uzbek motifs often focus on harmony and community, indicative of the traditional importance of family and clan structures in Central Asian societies [3].
Implications for Cultural Studies
Mythology is a pivotal element in understanding how past communities perceived themselves and their world. It provides critical insights into the psyche and priorities of cultures, often encapsulating fundamental truths and wisdom passed through generations [1].
Studying mythological motifs can reveal the linguistic evolution of a culture, as these motifs are frequently embedded in language through idioms, metaphors, and cultural references. Furthermore, mythology can serve as a tool for education and moral instruction, shaping the societal norms and behaviors of both the past and the present [2].
Conclusion
The exploration of Uzbek and English mythologies reveals distinct yet interlinked thematic threads that run through each culture's narrative fabric. In Uzbek mythology, motifs such as the Semurg and Alpamysh reflect values of protection, community, and moral integrity, resonating with the societal structure and historical contexts of Central Asia. Conversely, English mythology, with figures like King Arthur and motifs such as dragons, underscores themes of heroism, moral conflict, and national identity, which align with the historical narrative of conflict and conquest prevalent in Western Europe.
The study of mythological images and motifs extends beyond mere academic interest; it is a profound investigation into the cultural psyche and societal values. These myths and motifs serve as cultural signposts, guiding communities through shared histories and values while also distinguishing them by their unique interpretations of universal themes. By examining these myths, scholars and students alike gain a deeper appreciation of how cultures articulate their deepest fears, aspirations, and beliefs through the powerful language of mythology.
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Furthermore, this comparative approach not only illuminates the unique cultural narratives but also fosters a greater understanding among diverse cultures by highlighting common human experiences and aspirations encoded in mythological storytelling. Therefore, the study of mythological motifs is not just about preserving past narratives but is also crucial for building bridges between cultures in our increasingly interconnected world.
REFERENCES
1. Berezkin, Y.E. (2017). Comparative Mythology and the Human Past.
2. Berkeley, R.T.H.N.G.E.H. (2002). Symbols and Signs, Myths and Archetypes: A Cross-cultural Survey of the Serpent.
3. Boon, J.A., & Schneider, D.M. (1974). Kinship vis-à-vis Myth Contrasts in Lévi-Strauss' Approaches to Cross-Cultural Comparison.
4. Campbell, J., & Abadie, M. J. (1981). The Mythic Image.
5. Gala|chi, S. (2012). Mythical Motifs in Contemporary Fictions.
6. Khikmatovna, A. S. (2021). Comparative Analysis of Epic Helpers in English and Uzbek Folklore.
7. Lincoln, B. (2014). Discourse and the Construction of Society: Comparative Studies of Myth, Ritual, and Classification.
8. Nazarova, S. (2017). The Prohibition Motif in Uzbek Folklore, Its Origins and Poetics.
9. Puhvel, J. (1987). Comparative Mythology.
10. Shakirova, D. S., & Ismagilova, G. K. (2020). World images mythological floral motifs of the English, Russian and Tatar language.
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