The existence of religious beliefs and rituals is almost as old as humanity itself. From the earliest days of human history, religious rituals have played a crucial role in shaping various cultural and artistic expressions. Unsurprisingly, the first theatre performances are believed to have originated from religious rituals, serving as extensions or manifestations of spiritual beliefs and communal worship. For instance, the early theatrical traditions of ancient Greece and Rome were deeply rooted in religious festivals and ceremonies, honoring gods like Dionysus. Similarly, medieval drama in England, which often revolved around Christian themes, was heavily influenced by the religious context of the time, reflecting the central role of faith in everyday life. Among these religiously inspired dramas, morality plays became particularly popular in medieval England, with the anonymous work "Everyman" (1510) standing out as one of the most significant examples. "Everyman" is renowned for its profound moral message, conveying the importance of living a righteous life in accordance with Christian values. On the other hand, "Deli Dumrul," a story from the Turkish epic collection The Book of Dede Korkut, also contains a strong moral narrative, despite its focus on heroic exploits. This tale, rooted in Turkish-Islamic literature, is centered around the titular character’s journey, which ultimately emphasizes themes of piety, humility, and obedience to divine will. Therefore, this study aims to provide a comparative moral analysis of "Everyman" from English Medieval Christian literature and the story of "Deli Dumrul" from Turkish-Islamic literature. Upon evaluating both stories through a moral lens, it becomes apparent that, despite their distinct cultural and religious origins, they convey remarkably similar messages to their audiences. Both narratives suggest that the world we inhabit is essentially a testing ground, where human beings must prove their worth through virtuous deeds and unwavering faith in God. They stress that ultimate salvation and eternal peace in the afterlife can only be achieved by those who recognize God's supremacy, live truthfully, and commit themselves to good deeds. Moreover, both Christianity and Islam, as reflected in these stories, share a strikingly similar moral outlook regarding what constitutes right and wrong in this transient world. Thus, "Everyman" and "Deli Dumrul," while products of different religious traditions, underline the universal message that aligns with the ethical teachings of both Christianity and Islam, reinforcing the idea that human morality transcends cultural and religious boundaries.
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