Epics
One of the principal genres of the Mongolian oral tradition, epics were traditionally recited in wintertime by skilled bards. Sub-genres of the epic, which can extend into tens of thousands of verses, include "epic legends" (ülgerleg tuul' ), "epic collections" (comorlig tuul' ) and "epic tales" (tuuzhlag tuul' ).
Mongolian epic legends, which are representative of the Central Asian epic tradition, praise a hero's power and exploits within the context of a tale, often concerning a marriage, but are not based on real historical figures or events. The main action of the epic is a conflict between the hero and the forces of nature, often represented allegorically in the form of a monster; the epic hero defeats his enemy not with weapons or magic, but with the strength and patience inherited from his mother and father. The queen or princess figure in the Mongolian epic is not only beautiful, but also more intelligent than the hero - awakening him when he falls asleep, and reminding him of that which he forgets - thus reflecting the matriarchal quality of early Mongolian society. The horse is represented as the hero's best friend and advisor, also as being more clever than his master, and as the protector of the hero, summoning help from the heavens to revive the hero should he be killed.
 | In commemoration of the legacy and teachings of His Holiness Dulduit Danzanravzhaa Fifth Wrathful Noble Xutagt of the Great Gobi (1803-1856) I did not overbearingly sophize Nor preach with pride and arrogance But having found a sense in this world Spoke the truth of my dear heart. |   |