The article examines the typology of motifs in the epic “Er Qosay” within the epic traditions of the Karakalpak and Kazakh peoples. The similarities in the typology of motifs in the versions of the two peoples are scientifically analyzed. The study highlights the close geographical proximity and long-standing interaction between the Karakalpak and Kazakh peoples, which has resulted in a strong interconnection of their national histories. It is demonstrated that shared historical experiences and similar events give rise to particular phenomena, which are subsequently embodied in artistic form within the epic. Since the epic was performed orally and individually by zhyrau (a traditional Kazakh epic poet-singer and oral historian) and zhyrshy (a folk epic singer and storyteller) storytellers of both peoples, the presence of personal and national characteristics is emphasized. The article also reveals the role of the leading motifs in the development of the epic’s plot.  

Heroic epic, epic creativity, version

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