Söylem Journal of Philology

Abstract

Society is an organic structure where multi-layered ties hold individuals together. The foundational elements of this structure include various values such as cultural codes, shared rituals, history, language, and belief systems. Each of these values operates within its own sphere of influence, ensuring the cohesion and continuity of the social structure while incorporating individuals into what is collectively referred to as society. There is little doubt that language and linguistic awareness constitute the most significant unifying and/or distinguishing factors within this structure. There is broad agreement that the concepts of “nation” and “nationalism” played a central role in the dissolution of multinational states and the reshaping of the world map as a result of European-originated intellectual movements. While ideological movements shape political agendas, politics, in turn, influences sociological structures. In addition to the sociological background, one of the key elements that must be considered in the formation of linguistic awareness is undoubtedly literature and the works it produces. Beyond its artistic form, literary works have often served as a means of fostering individual consciousness through the ideas they convey.
The political and social events of the first half of the 20th century profoundly affected the Turkestan region, as they did the rest of the world. This study will examine the impact of literature on language by focusing on the major intellectual movements of the period and will explore the role of this influence in the formation of “linguistic awareness”. Given the vast scope of the research area, this study will be limited to analyzing the impact of these intellectual movements on the development of Kazakh linguistic awareness. Examples of conscious or incidental attempts by poets and writers to awaken “linguistic awareness” will be identified in various literary genres of the period, including novels, poetry, short stories, and drama. Ultimately, the role and influence of literary works in shaping Kazakh linguistic awareness and its societal dimensions will be evaluated.