A Comparative Sociocultural Analysis of the Folkloric Tale of Sheikh San'Aan in Kurdish and Persian Narratives from a Cultural Anthropological Perspective [In Persian]

In conjunction with other research methods, cultural anthropology is employed to investigate social and cultural transformations. It involves examining the ideological aspects of texts and speeches and the vocabulary and elements that imbue them with meaning. The selection and usage of specific words and phrases in proverbs reflect people's perspectives, attitudes, and thoughts toward various events, phenomena, situations, and social issues. In orally transmitted stories, the geographical and environmental culture of the narrator and the primary storyteller, whether known or anonymous, play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative's structure. This article compares two versions of the Sheikh San'Aan story (the Kurdish narrative by Mam Ahmad Lotfi Mahabadi and the Persian narrative by Attar) from a cultural anthropological standpoint to explore the cultural similarities and differences between the two works. The analysis reveals that both narratives feature Sheikh San'Aan and his daughter as the main characters, with disciples playing subordinate roles. Customs and traditions are mentioned in both works; however, a distinction lies in the presence of a character named Hazrat Ghaws, rooted in mystical and regional beliefs concerning spiritual leaders. The role of the father figure is also significant, reflecting the influence of fathers on the institution of the family and patriarchy, particularly evident in the Kurdish narrative where the Christian daughter introduces herself and Sheikh to her father. Both narratives contain customs related to Christianity, which Sheikh San'Aan must adhere to for conversion. Nevertheless, there are variations in customs and traditions between the Kurdish and Persian narratives, such as the Khanqah ceremony and wedding rituals. Clothing is another cultural element featured in both works, described as Kurdish attire in the Kurdish narrative and Sufi clothing in the Persian narrative due to its literary nature.