Uzbek and Islamic Mythological Influences in Literature and Culture

Abstract

Mythological influences found in Uzbek and Islamic traditions have had a great influence on both literature and culture. Islamic mythology, with its rich narratives from the Quran, hadiths, and various cultural interpretations, forms the basis of many mythological concepts in Central Asia, particularly in Uzbekistan. At the same time, Uzbek folk legends and traditions, in connection with the cultural and historical context of the region, shape national identity, values, and beliefs. This article explores how Islamic and Uzbek mythological influences shaped Uzbekistan's storytelling traditions, poetry, and cultural narratives. It analyzes the synthesis of Islamic mythology with local folklore and focuses on such main figures as Rumi, Shahnameh, and traditional Uzbek heroes, emphasizing that these myths correspond to modern problems and are a means of moral, spiritual, and social guidance.