THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: KAZAKH ORAL LITERATURE IN JÜSÏPBEK AIMAUYTOV’S NOVEL AQBÏLEK

Abstract

Aqbïlek is one of the first and most innovative novels in Kazakh literature. In this novel, Aimauytov merges Kazakh oral literary genres with novel form. This research looks at the style of Aqbïlek and its continuity with pre-existing Kazakh oral literary forms. Analyzing the Aimauytov’s use of stylistic features of oral epic poems, such as grammatical parallelism, end-rhyme, alliteration, the use of formulaic systems and similes, I argue that Aimauytov uses Kazakh oral literary techniques to adapt the novel form. Aimauytov also integrates Kazakh oral literary genres, such as körïsü and joqtau into the plot of the novel, to emphasize the alienation of Aqbïlek from the society and her final reintegration. Aimauytov uses stories of Äldekei, which imitate šešendik söz, to offer a social critique of the corruption and oppression that was enabled by the rich and influential Kazakh men. Having been banned shortly after its publication, Aqbïlek was subject to little scholarly investigation up until this day. This research, with its focus on the stylistic aspects of the novel, contributes to both the knowledge on Aqbïlek as well as Kazakh literary scholarship on early Kazakh novels.