THE IMAGINARY CHARACTER OF KOROGHLU: A SYMBOL OF JUSTICE AND RESISTANCE

Аннотация

В статье подчеркивается значимость эпоса о Гороглы как известной устной традиции в тюркоязычных регионах и на Кавказе, где центральная фигура представлена одновременно героической и фантастической. Гороглы изображается символом справедливости, сопротивления и стремлений угнетенных, сочетая исторические события с элементами воображаемого повествования. Этот основополагающий сюжет объединяет реальность и фантазию, связывая личную утрату с более широкими темами борьбы и справедливости. Ключевые слова: тюркоязычный регион, Короглы, Гырат, справедливость и сопротивление. Introduction.The Epic of Koroghlu is an enduring piece of oral tradition celebrated across Turkic-speaking regions, the Caucasus, and beyond. At its core is Koroghlu, a heroic yet fantastical figure who represents the ideals of courage, justice, and defiance against tyranny. While rooted in historical struggles, Koroghlu's character is infused with imaginative and supernatural elements that elevate him from a mere mortal to a legendary hero. This article explores the imaginary aspects of Koroghlu's character, highlighting his symbolic significance andthefantastical elements that define him. The name "Koroghlu," which translates to "Son of the Blind," underscores the tragic yet symbolic origins of the hero. According to the epic, Koroghlu's father, often portrayed as a skilled blacksmith or stableman, is blinded by a tyrannical ruler out of spite or envy.[1] This act of cruelty becomes the catalyst for Koroghlu's transformation into a rebel leader and champion of the oppressed. While the epic begins with a plausible narrative of injustice, it soon delves into therealm of fantasy as Koroghlu's journey unfolds. One of the most prominent imaginary elements in the epic is Koroghlu’s legendary horse, 13 Gırat ("Gray Horse"). Gırat is no ordinary steed; it possesses extraordinary speed, intelligence, and loyalty. In many versions of the epic, Gırat is obtained through a series of supernatural trials, symbolizing Koroghlu's worthiness as a hero. The horse often acts as more than just a mode of transport—it is a companion and ally, capable of understanding human speech and offering Originalarticle ISSN:3030-3931, Impact factor: 7,241 Volume 6,issue1,Fevral 2025 https://worldlyjournals.com/index.php/Yangiizlanuvchi worldly knowledge OAKIndex bazalari : research gate, research bib. Qo’shimchaindex bazalari:zenodo,open aire. googlescholar. strategic advice in critical moments.[2] Koroghlu himself is depicted as a larger-than-life figure, endowed with unparalleled strength, courage, and charisma. His ability to inspire loyalty among his followers and strike fear into his enemies borders on the supernatural. In some tales, Koroghlu's strength is attributed to divine favor or mystical blessings, reinforcing his role as a chosen protector of justice. A unique aspect of Koroghlu's character is his dual identity as a warrior and a bard. He composes stirring poems and songs, often in the heat of battle or in moments of reflection. These verses are said to have magical qualities, capable of rallying his followers and demoralizing his foes. This fusion of artistic creativity and martial prowess elevates Koroghlu to amythic status, blurring thelinebetween humanand divine.[3] [1] Aliyev, A. (2000). The Origins of Koroghlu: Historical and Mythical Perspectives. Baku University Press. [2]Ergun, S. (1996). Horses in TurkicFolklore: The Caseof Gırat in the KoroghluEpic.Journal ofCentral Asian Studies, 12(3), 45-60. [3] Gültekin, H. (2010). The Poet-Warrior Tradition in the Koroghlu Epic. Turkish Folklore Studies, 8(4), 123-138. The central conflict of the epic—Koroghlu’s rebellion against oppressive rulers—is portrayed in archetypal terms. The tyrants are often exaggerated caricatures of greed and cruelty, while Koroghlu and his band of followers embody the ideals of justice and resistance. This dichotomy lends thestory atimeless, almostmythical quality. Koroghlu’s loyal companions are another fantastical element of the epic. They are often depicted as fearless warriors with unique skills, reminiscent of legendary figures in other epic traditions, such as King Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table. The unwavering loyalty and camaraderie among Koroghlu’s followers reflect an idealized vision of human relationships.Koroghlu’s songs serve as more than expressions of his emotions; they are imbued with a magical ability to inspire, intimidate, and even alter the course of events. This use of music and poetry as a weapon is a recurring motif in many oral traditions but is especially prominent in the Koroghlu epic.Koroghlu’s imaginary traits are not mere embellishments; they serve a deeper symbolic purpose. As a character, he represents the collective aspirations of the oppressed—a figure who transcends human limitations to achieve justice. His supernatural abilities, legendary horse, and poetic prowess make him an idealized hero who embodies the values of courage, loyalty, and re