TEMATSKI SVIJET HRVATSKIH POVIJESNIH PREDAJA

Tale, along with legend and fairy tale, is the most widespread oral literature prose type. It is divided into several subtypes, among which stands out historical tale. It differs from other subtypes because it is based on actual historical figures and events. This also applies to Croatian historical tales. They refer to events and people who have marked Croatian history starting from the period before the arrival of Croats in today's homeland. In that context, they refer to the Illyrian Queen Teuta and the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Furthermore, they tell about the migration of Croats who came to the new homeland under the leadership of five brothers and two sisters. Tales also recall the kings of the national blood – Tomislav, Dmitar Zvonimir and Peter Kresimir the fourth. They are talking about their governance and various accomplishments. Although he ruled for a short time, the people also remember in their tales the last king of the national blood – Petar Svacic. Going further in history, many tales speak of centuries under Ottoman occupation. The people especially recall the zulums (evildoing) with whom Ottomans tortured native, Christian population. It’s about the right of the first night, the blood feud and the ravager. The tales also mention Hajduk and Uskok groups that fought bravely against the Turks. It is also important to mention the miraculous defenses against the Turks, which, thanks to the tales, are remembered to this day, especially the defense of Poljica and Sinj. Although based on real events, Croatian historical tales are works of oral literature. They are an important part of Croatian tradition and national identity and reveal to us the world as it once was.