The symbolism of the scarf in Bashkir heroic tales

In Bashkir heroic tales, the main character always has wondrous objects or assistants that vary in origin, appearance, and purpose. They help the hero in difficult situations, allowing him to survive, win, and achieve his goals. One such item-assistant is a scarf. The scarf is a common attribute that is used in the daily life of a person not only among the Bashkirs but also among other peoples, which is why it frequently appears in tales, customs, rituals, songs, beliefs, etc. The aim of the study is to identify and examine the main functions of the magical scarf and determine its place in Bashkir heroic tales. The object of the research consists of editions of Bashkir heroic tales published from the second half of the 19th century to the present. The material for analysis included 13 texts that mention the aforementioned magical item. The theoretical and methodological foundation of the work is based on the scientific works of V.Ya. Propp, G.R. Khusainova, V.E. Dobrovolskaya, F.Kh. Guliyeva, and others. To achieve the set goal, a comprehensive approach was used, combining general scientific methods (identification, systematization, analysis, generalization). The practical significance of the work lies in the expansion and deepening of knowledge about Bashkir tales. Its results can be applied in folklore studies when examining tales and in the development of educational courses on Bashkir folklore. The conclusions of the research show that the scarf is an actively used cultural item in many genres of Bashkir folklore, including tales. It acquires meanings as a wonderful means of conveying information about the hero's condition, a symbol for recognizing one's bride (or vice versa), a way of revival, obtaining food, etc. The presence of any object in a fairy tale text is determined not only by its everyday function but also, and importantly, by the sacred function of the item in traditional spiritual culture.

Folklore, fairy tales, heroic, Bashkir, hero, helpful objects, scarf, wedding, symbolism, function