Nestorian-Kurdish Social Relations in the Context of Narrative Theory

Abstract

This article examined the social relations of Nestorians and Kurds in the period from the 19th century to the First World War. The data used in the study were obtained through semi-structured interviews, which were conducted in Hakkari city. The data obtained from the field research were compared with the historical perspectives of Nestorian-Kurdish relations. Then, the data was analyzed in the context of the principles of narrative theory and Pierre Bourdieu's relational sociology. This study has revealed the social life practices of Nestorians and Kurds, who lived together for centuries, from the perspective of their grandchildren. Although Nestorian and Kurdish religion and language differ, their daily life, tribal formation, traditional customs and cultural lives of the two communities have been generally similar. After thorough analysis, this study indicated that Nestorian-Kurdish relations were based on friendship and neighborliness, which later deteriorated due to the influence of missionaries and foreign state officials. Nestorians and Kurds have shared a common history, culture, values, ideas and thoughts throughout history. However, with the influence of external factors, these values have been replaced and the era of disputes and conflicts had gradually evolved.