THE ROLE OF MYTHS AND LEGENDS IN HUMAN CULTURE

Аннотация

В данной статье анализируется роль мифов и легенд в культуре человечества. Обсуждаются происхождение мифов, их влияние на искусство, литературу и общественную жизнь, а также их сохранение в качестве культурного наследия. На основе примеров освещаются мифологические образы и их отражение в современной культуре,раскрывается значениемифови легенд для современного общества. Ключевые слова: мифология, легенда, культура, искусство, литература, история, образы, вера,ценности,устноенародноетворчество. Myths and legends, which are an integral part of human culture, have formed as products of people's thinking since ancient times. They emerged as attempts to explain natural phenomena, understand the origin of the world, and comprehend the mysteries of human life. While myths are primarily based on religious and philosophical concepts, legends are closer to historical events and have been passed down from generation to generation as products of folk oral tradition. Myths and legends are not merely interesting stories; they play an important role in shaping society's moral values, developing customs and rituals, and strengthening national culture and belief systems. Even today, they are reflected in literature, art, cinema, and theater, remaining an integral part ofhuman culture. The origin and development of myths. Myths are one of the earliest forms of human thought, through which people tried to explain natural phenomena and interpret the origin of the universe and humanity. The study of myths in Uzbek literature is mainly based on folk oral traditions and epics. According to A. Qayumov, myths were initially associated with religious views and later reflected in folk epics, fairy tales, and legends [1]. In theancient mythology of Turkicpeoples, thecreation of theworld, sacred symbols, andheroic motifs are widespread. In particular, the epic "Alpomish" stands out with its mythological foundations. In this epic, the hero's birth, his valor, and adventures are illuminated through mythological images [2]. The influence of myths and legends on culture and art. Mythological images are also common in visual arts. In Uzbek visual arts, mythological creatures such as dragons, fairies, and giants are depicted. For example, M. Rahimov's works portray characters basedonfolk legends [3]. 144 Volume 4, issue 4, 2025 Mythological motifs are also widely used in cinema and theater. For instance, works like "O'tkan kunlar" (Days Gone By) and "Shaytanat" (Devilry) illuminate the concepts of good and evil in human thinkingthrough mythological images [4]. Mythological symbols common across world cultures are also found in Uzbek mythology. In Uzbek mythology, thesun, moon, mountains, and trees were considered to possess divine power. Particularly, in theepic "Ko'ro'g'li" (Son of the Blind Man), the hero's birth and his acquisition of strength are connected with mythological traditions[5]. Furthermore, symbols of knowledge and wisdom hold an important place in folk tales. The character of Nasriddin Afandi embodies the sharp wit, humor, and life experience of the people. Heappears not as amythological hero, but as a legendary sage [6]. The Role of Myths and Legends in Social Life. Myths and legends play an important role in forming moral values in society. For instance, the "Avesto" (Avesta) depicts the eternal struggle between good and evil, serving as animportant lesson forhumanity's spiritual development [7]. In conclusion, myths and legends remain an integral part of human culture. They are not only products of ancient thinking but also sources of inspiration for today's art and culture. Therefore, studying and understanding them helps us to comprehend more deeply the development of human history, culture, and thought.