An Evaluation of Turkmen Folk Tales from Erbil, Iraq

Abstract

Iraqi-Erbil Turkmen folk tales have a multi-layered structure reflecting the historical experiences and cultural values ​​of Turkmen society. The thematic structure of these stories is composed of a combination of universal themes and local socio-cultural elements.

In Turkmen folk tales, the thematic structure is shaped by the reflection of historical and social experiences in the narrative. The themes of heroism and struggle express social resistance rather than individual courage, while love and loyalty constitute a symbolic representation of cultural values ​​and human dignity in the face of social obstacles.

In the stories, social solidarity and unity stand out as the fundamental element of collective identity. Parallel to this, the opposition between justice and oppression plays a decisive role in establishing moral order. Themes of migration, separation, and longing reflect feelings of belonging, identity, and nostalgia, adding emotional depth to the stories.

Gender roles and family relationships are clearly constructed within the framework of gender norms; women are primarily represented by loyalty and self-sacrifice, while men are represented by heroism and leadership. In this context, the family functions as a fundamental structure that both transmits values ​​and reproduces social order.