HISTORICAL AND ARTISTIC DIMENSIONS OF PIRIMQUL QODIROV’S “YULDUZLI TUNLAR”: A STUDY OF UZBEK HISTORICAL NOVEL TRADITION

Аннотация

This article explores the historical and artistic dimensions of Pirimqul Qodirov’s novel Yulduzli tunlar (Starry Nights), an eminent work in the Uzbek historical novel tradition. Focusing on the portrayal of 15th-16th century Central Asia during the decline of the Timurid dynasty and Babur Mirza’s formative years, the study examines the novel’s narrative strategies, use of symbolism, and intertextual connections, particularly with the Baburnama. The analysis reveals the novel’s role in bridging historical facts and artistic interpretation, providing nuanced insights into the sociopolitical upheavals of the era, psychological depth of the protagonist, and broader cultural transformations. The article argues that Yulduzli tunlar not only enriches Uzbek literary heritage but also contributes significantly to the global genre of historical novels through its sophisticated blend of historiography and poetic imagery. Keywords: Pirimqul Qodirov, Yulduzli tunlar, Uzbek historical novel, Baburnama, Timurid dynasty, symbolism, literary analysis, Central Asia. 1. Introduction The historical novel occupies a distinctive place in Uzbek literature, serving as a medium for exploring national identity, historical memory, and cultural continuity. Among contemporary Uzbek authors, Pirimqul Qodirov stands out for his meticulous blending of historical research with artistic narration, particularly in his seminal work Yulduzli tunlar. First written in 1972 but published only after overcoming ideological censorship, this novel offers a profound examination of the socio-political complexities of Central Asia in the late 15th and early 16th centuries through the life of Babur Mirza, founder of the Mughal Empire. This article aims to analyze the historical and artistic context of Yulduzli tunlar, focusing on its narrative techniques, symbolic language, and intertextual ties with classical sources such as the Baburnama. By situating the novel within the Uzbek historical novel tradition, the study highlights its contribution to both national literature and the wider discourse on historical representation. 2. Historical Background and Context of Yulduzli tunlar https://scientific-jl.com 2 5 1 47-son_1-to’plam_Iyun -2025 ISSN:3030-3621 Ta'lim innovatsiyasi va integratsiyasi The novel is set during a turbulent era marked by the decline of the Timurid dynasty, whose fragmentation triggered profound political and social shifts across Mawarannahr (Transoxiana). The gradual disintegration of centralized Timurid power was accompanied by rising conflicts, notably the ascendance of the Shaybanid Uzbeks, culminating in significant geopolitical reconfiguration. The historical novel genre holds a distinguished place in Uzbek literature. This genre not only illuminates the past but also enables a deeper understanding of national identity, the study of historical experiences, and the drawing of significant conclusions for the present day. Historical novels reflect society’s relationship with its own history and play a crucial role in preserving and nurturing cultural heritage. The author expresses this in the introduction to the work: “When I first wrote and submitted it for publication in 1972, it felt as if a great burden was lifted from my shoulders. However, under the pressure of the oppressive regime, the novel remained unpublished for six years. During this time, I felt as though I was still carrying that heavy burden. The manuscript was read and reviewed by many responsible officials and prominent academics. The decision to publish was subject to approval from the center of the Red Empire. The manuscript was thoroughly examined line by line in Moscow, and written reviews were provided. I endured a tangle of diverse opinions and criticisms, always relying on historical truth, especially primary sources like the Baburnama, to avoid losing my way. Over six years, the revisions I made aimed primarily at correcting artistic flaws and revealing the historical truth more deeply.”1 Pirimqul Qodirov’s “Yulduzli tunlar” is one of the finest examples of this genre, depicting political events in the region of Mawarannahr during the 15th–16th centuries through the fate of Babur Mirza. The novel goes beyond merely portraying historical events; it also reflects human emotions, social issues, and the complex conflicts of that era. The work draws the reader into the whirlpool of historical upheavals by portraying one of the most significant periods in Central Asian history—the decline of the Timurid dynasty and Babur’s journey toward India. Babur’s inner torment, confrontations with political intrigues, and ultimately becoming a self-determining historical figure are central themes. Pirimqul Qodirov masterfully blends historical facts with artistic characterization, making historical figures vivid and believable. Babur Mirza’s life encapsulates these dynamics; his military campaigns, exile, and eventual establishment of the Mughal dynasty in India are pivota