The figure of an old woman in the epic “Sasna Tsrer” has a rather rich set of motifs and functions manifesting itself in all four branches of the epic. The image of Artater Parav (the mistress of the field - the old woman) stands out in the third branch of the epic with stable motifs and an important role. In her attitude to field work, as well as in other ways, this figure resembles the goddesses Demeter and Anahit, the Celtic goddess Old Mother Taitiun and the famous Old Woman Hecales in Greek mythology. In the epic "Sasna Tsrer", the image of Artater Parav has an interesting development and is characterized by a variety of functions. She manifests herself both in the image of a woman with life experience and in the image of a caring mother; she has common features with the instructive old woman from the fairy tale.

Keywordsthe old woman epic “Sasna Tsrer” tale David of Sasun plot function motif myth field work curse.

In the epic “Sasna Tsrer” Khandut appears as a heroine endowed with exceptional qualities of heroism, dedication, and self-sacrifice. These features of her character contribute to a more holistic perception of the image of the main hero, David. The motives related to Khandut are extremely diverse, making her image the most complete and perfect. We analyzed the character of Khandut in the context of episodes and motives associated with her in 94 versions of the epic “Sasna Tsrer”, taking into account the characteristics of three typological groups (Moks, Mush, Sasoun).

Keywords“Sasna Tsrer” еpic Khandut motive Mother Goddess an Amazon heroic woman virgin goddess dragon fighter mythology goddess Anahit.