Women who save their husbands from difficult situations in The Book of Dede Korkut.(Critical Essay)

Abstract

'The Book of Dede Korkut' is one of the most important literary works as a means of recognising the status and value of Turkish women in society 'The Book of Dede Korkut which consists of twelve epic stories and on introduction, describes several events regarding the experiences of nomadic Oghuz Turks.

The Turks who lived in Central Asia between the IX-XI centuries, created epic-stories preserving the memories of their adventures in earlier ages. Later, these texts were modified and enriched as a result of the cultural effects and events following the migration of the Oghuzs to Azerbaican and Anatolia. These oral stories were transcribed to written form in XV. century with the addition of an introduction so that The Book of Dede Korkut was completed.

The stories which were transmitted from generation to generation, orally, by bards throughout the centuries, include valuable information regarding Turkish social structure, conception of life and the systems of beliefs.

The heroines who appear as active individuals, in society with strong and positive characteristics are also described as women who save their husbands in difficult conditions applying their intelligence, knowledge, devotion and skills in fighting.