Vol.17,No.2 | [Article] The Snake’s Symbolism in Anatolian Mythology: A Case Study of the Shahmaran Legend

This study examines the role of snakes in Anatolian folklore by focusing on the  legend  of  the  Shahmaran.  Depicted  as  half-human  and  half-serpent, 1 Shahmaran embodies the duality of the snake, reflecting its transformative and protective qualities. This study explores the role of the snake in Anatolian culture, its portrayal in the story of Shahmaran, and its symbolic presence in daily life. The findings reveal the dual nature of the snake as both a protector and a potential threat, illustrating the balance between life, death, and renewal. By examining Shahmaran, this study highlights how the serpent symbolism shapes the cultural identity and collective consciousness in Anatolia.