A comparative study of the Karakalpak epics «Kyrk kyz» and «Alpamys»

This article presents a comparative analysis of two significant epics in Karakalpak folklore: Kyrk Kyz and Alpamys. Both epics embody the heroic and moral values of the Karakalpak people, such as heroism, loyalty, justice, and love for the homeland. The analysis reveals the unique characteristics of each work, with Kyrk Kyz emphasizing female heroism through the portrayal of forty young women defending their homeland, while Alpamys centers on the personal journey and heroic feats of a single male protagonist. Both epics play essential roles in the preservation of Karakalpak cultural identity, but they differ in structure, focus, and thematic elements. The article also discusses the mythological, folkloric, and social contexts in which these epics were created, noting the influence of historical events and cultural values on their narratives.