زهرا منوچهری

ABESTRACT

Throughout history, i.e. from ancient times, the concept of “darvishhood” has been recognized as a way of spiritual discipline and a lifestyle in our society. Characteristics such as anonymity, wandering, possession of miracles, etc., have placed this character in a mysterious aura, making it suitable fodder for storytellers (particularly commoners) to portray. Accordingly, it is due to these very attributes that the darvish character has the potential to accept ancient archetypal roles. The present study analyzes the functions of ancient archetypes of darvish in ten prose texts of Persian commoners, aiming at elucidating the conscious and subconscious intentions of storytellers in reimagining this social type in the world of storytelling and uncovering the specific ideologies hidden within the layers of these tales. In the studied works (particularly in tales of heroism), kings and princes forsake their thrones and positions to choose the path of darvishhood to achieve their desired goal or beloved. These narratives advocate a certain detachment from material dependencies, a simple life, and detachment from worldly affairs, suitable for the societies and eras in which these stories were created. In these tales, darvish assumes various ancient archetype roles: the hero, the self, the wise old man, the anima/ exemplary mother, the persona, the shadow and the animus. Most ancient archetypes are saviors, self (i.e. symbols of completeness and assistance), reflecting the common people’s positive regard for this character. Shadows in these stories take the form of collective shadows (hypocritical impostors and pretentious darvishes). The research results demonstrate the extent to which common beliefs have influenced the portrayal of characters (both consciously and subconsciously).