The archaic aspect in the semantics of the word bliznak (twin)

Authors:

Pages: 565-575

Abstract:

The oldest layer in the myth of the twins in Bulgarian folk mythology, that gave rise to the original meaning, is kept in the folk ballads. Their plots reflect the opposition, rivalry and hostility between twin brothers. The twins are described in the texts as dangerous and fatal power. They kill each other or kill their mother and sister. The twin brothers argue about precedence, a girl, a common object, common inheritance, inseparable twin horses and falcons. One of the twin brothers kills or tries to kill the other one and later he commits suicide. The archaic aspect in the relationship between the mythological twin brothers appeared in the original meaning of the word bliznak (‘twin’) ‘the one who strikes, beats, hits, kills’ < ie *bhl(e)Óg- ‘beat’.

Keywords:

myth, meaning, rivalry, beat, semantics

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