The Armenian Studies Program web page is sponsored by a grant from
The Bertha and John Garabedian Charitable
Foundation, Fresno.
Pateel Mekhitarian-Editor
www.armenianchurch.net
and www.armenianheritage.com
Armenian
literature is a major aspect of the culture. Literature may include a wide
assortment of genres, such as fables, folk tales,
myths, fantasy, poem, prose,
and many others. However, early Armenian
literature began with the oral legends and epics. In many towns,
storytellers (gousans)
played music as they narrated these legends, reciting them as entertainment for
the village people. Movses Khorenatsi,
one of the earliest Armenian historians
from the fifth century, is to thank for the preservation of the early Armenian
legends. Because
of Khorenatsi, the
early legends of the Armenian culture are still being orally passed down today,
from generation to generation.
A
well-known
legend from the Armenian culture is the story of “Hayk and Bel.” Hayk was an
Armenian epic hero, who continually fought for
his people. Bel was a tyrant, who wanted Hayk’s power and
land, however Hayk refused Bel. Hayk is today known as the patriarch of
the
Armenians because he proved that it is better to fight for what you believe in,
rather than to live under tyranny. This legend is
about freedom and the
strength to stand up for oneself. Hayk portrayed these brave characteristics,
and is therefore known as an Armenian
hero.
Another
Armenian legend, recorded by Khorenatsi, is “Ara the Handsome.” Ara was a handsome Armenian hero, who was
desperately
desired by the queen of