A review on classic epics adapted to children's literature: An example of Bilgin Adalı

Yet another issue as important as children's physical needs is their mental needs. One of the important factors about this topic is no doubt the literature. Bilgin Adalı who ranks among the modern authors has different types of children and youth oriented Works. In this research it is aimed to scrutinize the author's epic works in terms of key elements of children's literature on the purpose of analysing the adaptation of the classic epic works written for adults to children's literature. General features, key elements and development of the children's literature are included in this research. With reference to theoretical information it is formed a basis for work analysis. Four works written up in epic type by Bilgin Adalı (Troya Savaşı ve İlyada Destanı, Odysseia Destanı, Gılgamış Destanı, Oğuz Kağan Destanı) are analysed under the titles of the key elements of children's literature; character, topic, message, language and expression, picture. It is seen that the works are in accordance with the determinated criteria when they analysed with descriptive survey method taking into account the literary improvement characteristics of children and young readers targeted. On the basis of these findings, it is inferred that the existing adaptations are successful. Containing the analysis of epic works this study is being thought to be a source for analysing different types of literary works which can be taken in the field of children's literature.