Comparison of the idealized human type in Nabî's Hayriyye and Sünbülzâde Vehbî's Lutfiyye

One of the significant genres in classical Turkish literature, nasihatnâme (books of advice), has attracted the attention of numerous scholars over the years. Generally, these works have been analyzed in terms of their position within their genre; however, due to the lack of multidimensional evaluations, the results obtained from such studies have often been limited. In Turkish literature, many works belonging to the nasihatnâme genre have been written, aiming to shape individual and social life by offering moral and spiritual advice concerning human conduct. Among the most renowned examples of this genre is Hayriyye, written by Nâbî in the 17th century. Hayriyye not only garnered significant attention during its time but also served as an important model for poets who followed. One of the poets influenced by Nâbî's work is Sünbülzâde Vehbî, who lived in the 18th century. Vehbî composed Lutfiyye, a work dedicated to his son, as a nazire (a literary emulation) of Nâbî's Hayriyye. Both works reflect the social and cultural dynamics of their respective periods while delineating the qualities of the ideal human in a clear and distinct manner. Hayriyye and Lutfiyye stand out not only as literary creations but also as guides aimed at regulating human relationships and societal structures. This study focuses on the idealized human figure presented in these two works, written approximately a century apart. The literary characteristics and thematic values of the texts will be compared, and connections will be drawn between the envisioned individuals of their time and contemporary humans. Additionally, the traits deemed essential for an ideal individual will be identified based on the advice offered in both texts. This analysis seeks not only to provide a literary examination but also to uncover traces of a perspective that aims to elevate humanity both morally and socially.