Abai’s Creative Legacy and Karakalpak Literature

Abstract

In the study of the interrelations between Kazakh and Karakalpak literatures, the creative legacy of Abai Kunanbayev occupies a central place. During the examination of literary connections between the two peoples, Abai’s works should be regarded as a significant subject within Karakalpak literature. One of the main reasons for this is the closeness of the living environment and language of the Kazakh and Karakalpak peoples, as well as the fact that the sources of Abai’s artistic inspiration originate from oral folk literature. Folk didactics based on eloquent speech, terme and tolgau have always provided spiritual strength to great talents. From this perspective, the attainment of artistic heights in the verbal art of Berdakh and Abai is deeply rooted in the people’s wisdom and rich cultural heritage. Therefore, Karakalpak literary figures embraced Abai’s works as kindred and accepted them as a model and source of inspiration.