THE ROOTS OF THE HORSEMAN IMAGE IN FOLK ORAL CREATIVITY AND TRADITIONAL EPIC THOUGHT

Abstract

The image of the horseman in traditional epic thinking is one of the key artistic symbols that embodies the historical memory of the people, their social ideals, and aesthetic views. The mythological and epic foundations of this image hold a significant place in the oral traditions of Turkic peoples. In particular, the horseman is interpreted as a representation of qualities such as heroism, courage, freedom, and loyalty. In epic works, special attention is given to the inseparable connection between the horseman and the horse, presented as a unified artistic model. It is argued that in epic thinking, the image of the horseman is not only a symbol of heroism but also an expression of national spirit and worldview.