Literature of Kazakhstan

Eurasia.Travel > Kazakhstan > Kazakh Culture > Literature of Kazakhstan

Literature of Kazakhstan

Abay Kunanbayev

The literary history of Kazakhstan spans several millennia, shaped by the diverse cultures and tribes that once inhabited the vast region—from the shores of the Caspian Sea to the snow-capped Altai Mountains. These ancient peoples crafted a rich tapestry of legends, myths, and epic tales that laid the foundation for a long-standing literary tradition. Unlike modern times, where individual authors are celebrated, early Kazakh literature was communal and oral, with personal authorship only gaining prominence in the mid-19th century.

Thousands of years ago, nomadic Kazakhs composed epic poems and wove intricate legends about mythical heroes, gods, and creatures. These stories evolved over time into the famed epics “Korkyt-ata” and “Oguz-Nameh.” Korkyt, though depicted as a storyteller in the epic, was in fact a historical figure—a medieval thinker, musician, and inventor of the kobyz, a traditional Kazakh musical instrument. Both the kobyz and the dombra frequently accompany the recitation of these poetic epics, adding a musical dimension to their narration.

Kazakhstan’s poetic tradition has continuously evolved, particularly with the rise of the “Tolgau” genre in the 15th century. Tolgau was a reflective, philosophical form of poetry, often imparting wisdom or moral lessons, and it was performed by the “zhyrau,” a poet-singer. These zhyraus were not only poets but also influential figures in Kazakh society, often shaping political discourse and offering societal commentary. By the 17th century, Kazakh poetry took a more revolutionary turn, with the development of “aytys”—a poetic duel between two “akyns” (singers), similar to contemporary rap battles. In these verbal showdowns, akyns would tackle pressing topics such as religion, politics, and social issues, providing sharp commentary on the world around them.

Kazakh written literature, however, truly began to flourish after Kazakhstan became part of the Russian Empire in the first half of the 19th century. Russian and European literary influences started to permeate Kazakh culture, sparking the rise of prominent Kazakh writers like Ibrai Altynsarin, Shokan Valikhanov, and most notably, Abai Kunanbayev, who remains a towering figure in Kazakh literature. During this time, Kazakhstan’s cultural landscape expanded with translations of world-renowned literary works, while Kazakh writers explored new genres and formalized the recording of their rich oral traditions.

In the 20th century, under the Soviet Union’s dominance, socialist themes became pervasive in literature, often celebrating party leaders and promoting state values. The Great Patriotic War (World War II) further shaped Kazakh poetry, as writers focused on patriotic themes, crafting works that honored soldiers and wartime heroes. In the post-war period, Kazakh literature embraced new genres, including novels, dramas, and even science fiction, aligning itself with global literary trends. As a result, contemporary Kazakh literature reflects a blend of traditional themes and modern influences, mirroring the broader currents in world literature.

Culture

Tourists in Baikonur

Discover Baikonur: Space History Exploration Tour

From$750
5 Days / 4 Nights

Visit the Baikonur Cosmodrome
Explore historic launch pads
Tour the Space Museum
See iconic space artifacts
Witness rocket assembly facilities
Visit the Gagarin Start Pad

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Baikonur, the world’s first spaceport. Explore historic launch sites, see iconic space artifacts, and learn about Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in space exploration. A must for space enthusiasts and history lovers alike!