Lak children's game folklore

Abstract

The subject of this research is the Lak children's game folklore. Traditional folklore of the peoples of Dagestan is characterized by a wide variety of genres. Children's folklore, which in turn is also rich in genres, holds a significant place therein. Examination of children’s oral lore of the peoples of Dagestan, namely Laks, is substantiated by heightened interest in the spiritual values – customs, rituals, traditions of the past, which defines its relevance, significance, and practical value. A particular role in Lak folklore belongs to game folklore as an element of children’s folklore as a whole. Based on the most widespread games among Lak teenagers (such as “Shagai”), the author analyzes the rules, certain elements used in the course of the game, and peculiarities of making items necessary for the game. The author’s special contribution lies in the description of the nature, peculiarities and specifics of children's games in the settlement of Vikhli of Kulinsky District of the Republic of Dagestan using philological and comparative-analytical approach. This allows determining the ethnic specificity of the material under review. The study of game folklore is of particular relevance, as it promotes such crucial universal concepts as friendship, mutual help, comradeship, as well as develops moral and ethical qualities in children.