Abstract:

Wars are primary factors which shape time and space and create the historical layer in Turkish epics and they also point to the idea of jihad in the context of collective metaphysical consciousness. That ideal is represented by the hero of epic and include not only seize of the territory but also expeditions leading up to Turkification and activities to reconstruction. Thereby the lands mentioned in the epics, got qualification of holy places after conquered. Epic hero becomes a conqueror for social utility rather than individual interests. Hero is supported by the soul of ancestors, metaphysics/mystical powers and his weapons. All of these point to some traditional/cultural symbols which are kept in community memory. In this study, the metaphysical aspects of the wars and symbolic aspects of the weapons in Bagysh which is one of Kyrgyz epics, are examined. Arrow, bow, spear, sword and rifle are chosen from Bagysh’s weapons and the main subject is deepened in this framework. It can be said that the war compose the centre of the hero's ontic universe with its metaphysical dimension and the hero is supported by spiritual and mythological values. In this regard it is accepted as a holy notion. On the other hand, it is determined that war weapons symbolize the notion of freedom, independence, sovereignty, and hegemony of the epic period. Additionally, war weapons contribute to the success of the hero and to the faith and determination of his war.  

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