Poetics and typology of the epics «Dariga khyz» («Dariga gir») and «Kissa Shachzinda» («Kissa Shaxzinda»)

Abstract

Among the works of religious content, distributed both in oral and in book form among
the Kazakhs, the epics of the «Dariga Kyz» and similar in content «Kissa Shahizinda» can be called. For
the first time, «Dariga Kyz» was published by M.Zhumashuly, and «Kissa Shahizinda» by J.Shaikhslamov.
In both epics, the main character is Mahdi, who is represented in many religions as a savior. However, in
both epics there are significant religious and ideological differences in the data on the parents and the birth of Mahdi. The role of religious views in the epic «Dariga Kyz» occupy a significant place. It is obvious
that Zh.Shaikhslamov, an explicit supporter of the Sunni religious beliefs, wrote «Kissa Shahizinda» in the
tradition of «answer» in Eastern literature to refute these beliefs presented in «Dariga Kyz». It is difficult
to say that these two people are the authors of these epics. The content and artistry of both epics shows that
they were in folklore turnover more, and the creators initially created them based on legends taken from
the mouth of the people. A comparative study of the two works contributes to a deeper understanding of the
relationship of folklore and written literature, leaving traces of the religious views of the Kazakh steppe in
the art of the word.