Rivalry folklore in the context of sociocultural factors and variables: The case of Fatsa vs. Ünye

Communication processes, both individual and social, take place across different periods, contexts, and forms, often incorporating competition for a variety of reasons. This competitive aspect is deeply embedded in cultural production, consumption, and transmission, contributing to the emergence of competition-based elements in social values, beliefs, traditions, and folklore. Over time, various folklore-related topics and cultural products shaped by competition have been identified, yet independent studies explicitly addressing the concept of "rivalry folklore" remain limited. Despite the evident role of rivalry in shaping local narratives, stereotypes, and traditions, systematic academic inquiries into how competition manifests in folklore and influences cultural identity are still insufficient. From this perspective, this study examines the relationship between folklore and competition through a focused case study of Fatsa and Ünye, two neighboring districts in Türkiye with a historically rooted rivalry. The research aims to determine the characteristics, foundations, and implications of relevant cultural products shaped by this competition, analyzing them through various sociocultural and historical variables. To achieve this, the study employs in-depth observation and interview methods as part of extensive field research. The collected data are then classified and analyzed with a holistic and interdisciplinary approach, enabling a comprehensive understanding of how competition influences folklore in these two communities. The study thoroughly explores the phenomenon and perception of competition in Fatsa and Ünye, examining its cultural reflections in areas such as behavioral folklore, beliefs, rituals, narratives, and stereotypes. Findings from field observations, interviews with informants, and related research suggest that despite being distinct groups, individuals and communities in both districts exhibit significant similarities in their behavioral patterns and the stereotypes they construct about one another. The rivalry between Fatsa and Ünye is deeply rooted in historical sociopolitical factors, which have evolved over time. While traditional elements of competition remain influential, contemporary rivalry has increasingly centered on the shared aspiration of both districts to attain provincial status. In this context, the study also evaluates the impact of modern transformations, particularly the role of digital platforms and social media in shaping and redefining this competitive dynamic. The younger generations of Fatsa and Ünye engage with and perpetuate rivalry in new ways, often through social media interactions, humor, and digital folklore, thereby adding new dimensions to this long-standing cultural phenomenon. By shedding light on the evolving nature of this rivalry, the research provides insights into the broader relationship between competition and folklore, demonstrating how competitive interactions shape and are shaped by cultural expressions over time.