KOSOVA - PRIZREN DEATH IN TURKISH FOLK CULTURE

Abstract

The subject of this study is to identify the traditional practices of Turks living in the city of Prizren in Kosovo in relation to death from the main transitional periods of human life and to reveal the practices performed accordingly. In these periods any individual is prepared for new life, new period in life with various practices and beliefs. In the first chapter, Kosova and Prizren chosen as research field are portrayed; the situation of Turks who live in there is mentioned. In the second part; The data obtained as a result of the study was presented and evaluated. The traditions and beliefs about the death are also studied in phases pre-death, death and past death. Last chapter is devoted to a general evaluation of the research.Prizren Turks are a Muslim society. Therefore, it has been observed that Islam has a great influence on their traditions and beliefs. As in many Turkish communities, it is possible to see the traces of their pre-Islamic beliefs. The general characteristics and religious understanding of Prizren Turks have a great role in preserving and keeping the traditions alive. With these features, many traditions and traditions that remain from their ancestors in their lives are still alive with all their vitality because they do not lose their ties with the past. As a reflection of the deep-rooted history and historical and cultural accumulation of the Turkish Nation, the traditions, customs and beliefs of the Prizren Turks are very rich.