Typology of female characters and national identity in the works of Safuan Shaimerdenov

Abstract

This article examines the typology of female characters in the works of the prominent writer Safuan Shaimerdenov through the lens of national identity and intertextuality. The main objective of the study is to identify the typological features of female images in the author’s prose and to reveal their role in representing national identity.

In literature, female figures are considered an essential means of conveying national worldview and spiritual values. In Kazakh prose, the depiction of traditional values, cultural heritage, and the renewal of national consciousness through female characters constitutes one of the most relevant directions in contemporary literary studies. The study focuses on the heroines of Shaimerdenov’s major works – Bibigul (Mezgil), Kargash (Kargash), Espet (Majnun Tal), and Inesh (Inesh). The research applies content analysis, intertextual, typological and linguocognitive methods. Special attention is given to the artistic strategies employed by the author in portraying national identity, as well as to the moral character and spiritual dimension of his heroines.

Furthermore, the intertextual parallels between Shaimerdenov’s female characters and similar images in other literary works are considered. The findings demonstrate that the female figures in Shaimerdenov’s prose occupy a distinct typological position in Kazakh literature and play a crucial role in shaping national consciousness. Each heroine functions as a symbolic representation of specific national values; their maternal compassion, fidelity, and ethical qualities are shown to be deeply rooted in the spiritual traditions of the nation. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of the artistic nature of female characters and provide new perspectives on the problem of national identity.

Keywords: Safuan Shaimerdenov, female characters, typology, national identity, intertextuality, character psychology, linguo-stylistic analysis, cognitive analysis.