The epic in middle ages: A comparative study of the Anglo-Saxon "Beowulf" and Turkish "Oguz Khan"

This thesis represents a comparative analysis of Turkish epic Oguz Khan and Anglo-Saxon epic Beowulf. Also, the concept of medieval epic is discussed on the basis of these two epics. The Anglo-Saxon Epic Beowulf, which has its roots in Scandinavia, is a fine example of Old English. Three tribes (Anglos, Saxons, Jutes) which migrate from Scandinavia to England brought their literary tradition with themselves. Beowulf is reinterpreted in England in the view of a new religion, and culture representing Christianity. However, despite the effects of Christianity, the rich pagan culture protects its references in the epic The Turkish Epic Oguz Khan, which has its origin in Middle Asia, is an output of a rich culture. As Turks bring this epic heritage wherever they migrate, the epic of Oguz Khan protects its vitality on a vast area. When Turks were converted to Islam, they reinterpreted Oguz Khan in the view of Islam but they also preserved the pagan version. Both epics reveal similarities in the aspect of universal epic tradition. Two epics depend on oral tradition and the bards are the mediators of this tradition. Oguz Khan and Beowulf are the narrations about a mighty hero in verse. Both epics are the literary production of two nations which migrate throughout Middle Ages. They are reinterpreted in the light of new religions (Christianity and Islam) and undergo some changes.