The Image of the Historical Figure in Eastern and Western Legends: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This article offers a comparative analysis of the formation and interpretative features of the image of the historical figure in Eastern and Western legends. The study demonstrates that within Eastern traditions, historical figures are predominantly represented as embodiments of collective values, social harmony, and spiritual perfection, whereas in Western legends they are more closely associated with individualism, inner dramatic tension, and personal agency.

The methodological framework integrates comparative-historical, structural-semantic, and hermeneutic approaches. The theoretical foundations of Joseph Campbell and Mircea Eliade play a central role in shaping the analytical perspective of the research.

The findings reveal that in both Eastern and Western cultural contexts, the image of the historical figure evolves into a universal archetype that reflects the complex relationship between the individual and society, while simultaneously reinforcing the moral and aesthetic values of a given culture. The article underscores the significance of studying representations of historical figures for the fields of literary studies, historiography, anthropology, and cultural studies.