The Nart epic is a monumental monument to the culture of the Circassians, as, indeed, of other peoples of the Caucasus. Researchers attribute the creation of this magnificent source of traditions to the third millennium BC. On the example of the Nart epic, one can trace the history of peoples from the earliest stages to the period of developed feudal relations.
The Nart epic begins its story from the era of matriarchy, when women played a leading role in society, and the genus was transmitted along the maternal side. The mother of all the Narts is the wise and economic Satan. All affairs in the sledding society were decided according to her instructions. According to her insistent advice, the sledges went on a campaign, she saved the harvest, defeated enemies by cunning. Other female images of the epic also have strong matriarchal features and qualities, such in their actions Adiyuh, the beautiful Shkhatsfitsa, smart Malichiph.
Based on the materials of this historical source, one can judge the fall of matriarchy among the Narts and its replacement by patriarchy. Significant changes in socio-economic life are evidenced by the emergence of property inequality, the struggle of the common people against the nobility. Many episodes of the epic ridicule the stinginess and greed of the rich, and praise savvy. The supreme authority of the Narts was the council - hasa. It dealt with all the most important matters of society, all sledges could attend the council, and everyone could make his proposal. However, over time, this democratic order was eliminated by powerful elders. At Khas, all power powers gradually transfer to eminent sledges. Now only warriors gather there, who decide all matters.
The Nart epic of the Circassians is represented by the savvy and brave Sosruko, the wise experience of Nasran, the ardent Shawei, the persistent Badinoko, who helped the common people with their actions, fought with foreigners, as well as with giants. From the legends it is clear that the Circassians were engaged in agriculture and cattle breeding, the sledge played a special role in horse breeding, it was the Circassians who had the Kabardian breed of horses who appeared and gained worldwide fame . From crops, they cultivated millet, from which they cooked thick porridge-pasta, cakes, as well as a special drink - makhsyma.
The Nart epic shows the enthusiasm of athletes for sports. The games were held in different places, limited to Elbrus, Volga, Kuban, Taman Peninsula, as well as the Black and Caspian Seas.
Many features of the Nart epic have something in common with Greek mythology, which researchers confirm. This indicates the close contacts of the Circassians with Greek cities - colonies of the Northern Black Sea region. Now many famous deeds of the Nart heroes are illustrated. Particularly popular is the Nart epic in pictures; it highlights the main milestones of the history of this people and its heroes. The Nart epic serves as a source of artistic development and poetic inspiration for all Caucasian peoples.