SYMBOLISM OF THE NUMBER THREE IN TUVAN FOLKLORE AND LITERATURE

Abstract

The paper analyzes the semantics and symbolism of the number ush ‘three’ in the oral and poetic creativity and literature of the Tuvan people. It is noted that this number has a philosophical significance. In the worldview of Tuvans, it is primarily associated with the spheres of the Universe – Ustuu Oran, Ortaa Oran, Aldyy Oran. Three is also an indicator of human life cycles. In the literature of Tuvans, it is interpreted in different ways, which is explained by the individuality of each author. Three is also a symbol of the beginning, middle, and end. It also acts as a connecting thread between man, nature and the earth. The number three is also reflected in the prose of Tuvan writers. Some authors have written original riddles-triads, poems based on folklore traditions. Thus, the number three occupies a special place in the worldview of Tuvans and is considered a sacred number.