The functions of "old wise man" and "trickster" on the basis of noncompliance theory: Why is Nasreddin Hoca funny? [Uyumsuzluk kurami baǧlaminda "yaşli bi̇lge adam" ve "oyuncu"nun i̇şlevleri̇: Nasreddi̇n Hoca neden komi̇kti̇r?]

Abstract

This article seeks the answer the question why Nasreddin Hoca is funny on the ground that his masks which are changing in time. Nasreddin Hoca is evaluated according to the "trickster" and "old wise man" archetypes of Carl Gustav Jung and his multi-stratum structure is analyzed. Introducing the trickster side of Nasreddin Hoca, who is represented with being generally and only underlined his wisdom, is to reveal his multi-stratum structure in his personality. The white turban, Nasreddin Hoca's long white beard, robe, wisely words and clever answers appearing in his jokes enables him to be as a figure of authority and a pathfinder. On the other hand, contrary to these peculiarities, it is seen that attitudes of Nasreddin Hoca do not fit his social status. If these behaviors is read by the Jung's trickster archetype, it may be concluded the fact that he is representing a person both creative and destructor or both giver and negatory or both cheater and deceived. In this article, the funny case appearing in the jokes of Nasreddin Hoca is to be analyzed according to the noncompliance on the basis of the multi-stratum structure. The reason of the noncompliance is the contrast between the "Hoca" identity represented by Nasreddin Hoca and his behaviors and utterances. Appearing the funny is the result of the fact that the behaviors expected from "old wise man" are not met by his other face, the trickster. This discord between his social status and behaviours and speeches is the main peculiarity of the jokes of Nasreddin Hoca.