DOI: https://doi.org/10.36719/2663-4619/124/9-17
Almara Nabiyeva
Baku State University
PhD in Philology
http://orcid.org/0009-0005-3050-9056
almaranebiyeva@bsu.edu.az
Comparative Analysis of Enemy Characters in the
Epic Kitabi-Dede Korkud
Abstract
The epic Kitabi-Dede Korkud presents a complex and multidimensional portrayal of enemy figures. Enmity in the narrative is not limited to external invaders or infidels; it also encompasses internal discord, familial and tribal fragmentation, and mythological catastrophes. The enemies are generally categorized into two main groups: external and internal. External foes include the rulers of the fortresses of Trabzon and Duzmurt, hostile non-Muslim tribes, and brutal commanders such as Shökli Melik, who launch sudden attacks on the Oghuz people, aiming to destroy their land and culture. Internal enemies, on the other hand, arise from within the Oghuz society itself—characters like the forty rebellious servants, the old man Aruz, and the monstrous Tepegoz, who particularly symbolizes internal disaster and moral decay. Furthermore, the epic explores intra-family and inter-tribal conflicts—such as the tensions between Dirse Khan and his son Bugach, and between Qazan Khan and Bekil—which enrich the narrative’s conception of enmity on ideological and ethical levels. The division between the Inner and Outer Oghuz also signifies the disintegration of tribal unity. Nevertheless, by the end of the epic, unity is restored, and the overarching message emphasizes national solidarity, justice, and faith. The ultimate victories over both internal and external enemies reflect the perseverance, spiritual resilience, and deep-rooted commitment of the Oghuz people to collective identity and divine justice.
Keywords: God, Dede Korkut, Oghuz, external enemies, internal enemies