Volume 4, issue 4, 2025
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THE ROLE OF MYTHS AND LEGENDS IN HUMAN CULTURE
Abdunazarova Nazira Dilshod qizi
Termez University of Economics and Service
Faculty of Pedagogy and Social-Humanitarian Sciences
Department of Philology and Language Teaching (Uzbek language)
2nd year student
ANNOTATION:
This article analyzes the role of myths and legends in human culture. It
discusses the origins of myths, their influence on art, literature, and social life, as well as their
preservation as cultural heritage. Mythological symbols and their reflection in modern culture are
explored through examples, highlighting the significance of myths and legends for contemporary
society.
Keywords:
mythology, legend, culture, art, literature, history, symbols, belief, values, folklore.
АННОТАЦИЯ:
В данной статье анализируется роль мифов и легенд в культуре
человечества. Обсуждаются происхождение мифов, их влияние на искусство, литературу
и общественную жизнь, а также их сохранение в качестве культурного наследия. На
основе примеров освещаются мифологические образы и их отражение в современной
культуре, раскрывается значение мифов и легенд для современного общества.
Ключевые слова:
мифология, легенда, культура, искусство, литература, история, образы,
вера, ценности, устное народное творчество.
Myths and legends, which are an integral part of human culture, have formed as products of
people's thinking since ancient times. They emerged as attempts to explain natural phenomena,
understand the origin of the world, and comprehend the mysteries of human life. While myths
are primarily based on religious and philosophical concepts, legends are closer to historical
events and have been passed down from generation to generation as products of folk oral
tradition.
Myths and legends are not merely interesting stories; they play an important role in shaping
society's moral values, developing customs and rituals, and strengthening national culture and
belief systems. Even today, they are reflected in literature, art, cinema, and theater, remaining an
integral part of human culture.
The origin and development of myths. Myths are one of the earliest forms of human thought,
through which people tried to explain natural phenomena and interpret the origin of the universe
and humanity. The study of myths in Uzbek literature is mainly based on folk oral traditions and
epics. According to A. Qayumov, myths were initially associated with religious views and later
reflected in folk epics, fairy tales, and legends [1].
In the ancient mythology of Turkic peoples, the creation of the world, sacred symbols, and heroic
motifs are widespread. In particular, the epic "Alpomish" stands out with its mythological
foundations. In this epic, the hero's birth, his valor, and adventures are illuminated through
mythological images [2].
The influence of myths and legends on culture and art. Mythological images are also common in
visual arts. In Uzbek visual arts, mythological creatures such as dragons, fairies, and giants are
depicted. For example, M. Rahimov's works portray characters based on folk legends [3].
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Mythological motifs are also widely used in cinema and theater. For instance, works like "O'tkan
kunlar" (Days Gone By) and "Shaytanat" (Devilry) illuminate the concepts of good and evil in
human thinking through mythological images [4].
Mythological symbols common across world cultures are also found in Uzbek mythology. In
Uzbek mythology, the sun, moon, mountains, and trees were considered to possess divine power.
Particularly, in the epic "Ko'ro'g'li" (Son of the Blind Man), the hero's birth and his acquisition of
strength are connected with mythological traditions [5].
Furthermore, symbols of knowledge and wisdom hold an important place in folk tales. The
character of Nasriddin Afandi embodies the sharp wit, humor, and life experience of the people.
He appears not as a mythological hero, but as a legendary sage [6].
The Role of Myths and Legends in Social Life. Myths and legends play an important role in
forming moral values in society. For instance, the "Avesto" (Avesta) depicts the eternal struggle
between good and evil, serving as an important lesson for humanity's spiritual development [7].
In conclusion, myths and legends remain an integral part of human culture. They are not only
products of ancient thinking but also sources of inspiration for today's art and culture. Therefore,
studying and understanding them helps us to comprehend more deeply the development of
human history, culture, and thought.
REFERENCES:
1. Qayumov A. Uzbek Folk Epic and Mythology. – Tashkent: Science, 2001. – 224 p.
2. Axmedov E. Alpomish – Folk Hero. – Tashkent: Spirituality, 1993. – 180 p.
3. Rahimov M. Mythological Images in Visual Arts. – Tashkent: Art, 2010. – 256 p.
4. Qodiriy A. Days Gone By. – Tashkent: Literature and Art Publishing House, 1926. – 350 p.
5. Yo'ldoshev A. The Epic of Ko'ro'g'li and Its Mythological Roots. – Tashkent: Science, 1987. –
198 p.
6. Mirzo U. Nasriddin Afandi – Folk Sage. – Tashkent: Spirituality, 2005. – 174 p.
7. Ziyo A. Avesta and Its Spiritual Heritage. – Tashkent: East, 2014. – 290 p.
