THE DOOR OF THE YURT AS A SIGN SYSTEM AND CULTURAL CODE

Abstract

Yurt as a model of the universe and the symbolic space of the traditional Turkic-Mongolian dwelling is the object of many scientific studies. However, some of its elements are less studied. In particular, the key details of the yurt - the door.

It is known that the space symbolic of a yurt is a system of codes constructed by various sociocultural experience, which makes it possible to show the semantics of its structural elements. For example, the door, which is a whole semiotically object. Not only the door and its structural elements are the structures of the sacred system of the yurt, but also the material and production techniques of the door, its decor, installation rules, etc., due to connection with some traditional taboos, superstitions, rituals and customs.

It can be assumed that the material and plastic basis of the yurt’s door and its structural elements, representing a holistic artistic image, consistent with the aesthetic picture of the nomadic Turkic-Mongolian people’s world, at the same time are the structural components of the ritual and ceremonial culture.

In this article we tried to study the door of the yurt as a symbolic system and cultural code, based on the Turkic-Mongolian culture (Kazakhs, Tuvans, Kyrgyz and others).

The article was prepared within the project of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan AR09259280 “Languages of Kazakh culture as the basis of ethnic identity: semiotics and semantics”.

Key words: door, yurt, Turkic-Mongolian culture, semantics, symbolism