The concept of Gopuz in Turkic and Hungarian folklore

Folklore exists due to the nations who create, preserve, and enrich it, embedding their unique national characteristics and identity.Each example of the folklore has a creator and it becomes popular by passing "from tongue to tongue" between the individuals of this separate nation.Furthermore, these samples spread among other nations transcending beyond the borders, making new versions possible to appear.This is the case with the nomadic Turkic and the neighbour peoples lived together with them.Gopuz is one of the famous folkloric element of nomadic Turkic people which was inherited by the other nations like Hungarians.This article addresses the historical roots of the Gopuz, examining its role in traditional rituals, epic narratives, and cultural symbolism.Special attention is given to the historical interactions and exchanges between Turkic tribes and Hungarian peoples, which significantly influenced Hungarian folk music and cultural practices.A comparative analysis highlights similarities and differences between the Turkic Gopuz and its Hungarian counterpart, the Koboz, considering their roles in spiritual, ceremonial, and secular contexts.Additionally, contemporary initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the Gopuz and Koboz in both Turkic and Hungarian cultures are discussed, underscoring their importance for cultural heritage and identity.