FOLKLORE-TYPOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE HERO–RIVAL RELATIONSHIP IN THE EPICS “GILGAMESH” AND “RAMAYANA”

Abstract

This article examines the hero–rival relationship in the epics ―Gilgamesh‖ and ―Ramayana‖ from a folklore-typological perspective. The emergence of the rival within the epic plot, the
causes of conflict with the hero, the development of opposition, its relationship with epic space, and the
rival‘s narrative function are comparatively analyzed. The transformation of Enkidu from rival into
companion, Humbaba as a mythological guardian of alien space, and Ravana as an aggressive ruler-rival
are identified as distinct models. The study argues that the hero–rival relationship can be examined through
the triad ―opposition – trial – transformation,‖ which reveals deeper typological regularities of epic plot.