LITERARY CHARACTERS AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON YOUTH EDUCATION

ISSN: 2582-4686 SJIF 2021-3.261,SJIF 20222.889, 2024-6.875 ResearchBib IF: 9.948 / 2024 VOLUME-5, ISSUE-12 1080 LITERARY CHARACTERS AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON YOUTH EDUCATION B.M. Ochilova, Doctor of Philosophy, Professor Jizzakh State Pedagogical University Abstract This article examines the influence of literary characters created by Sharof Rashidovich Rashidov on the formation of values among Uzbek youth in the context of globalization. It highlights how Rashidov’s characters, embodying traditional values and cultural ideals, serve as moral guides and examples for young people navigating the complexities of a globalized world. The article also explores how Rashidov’s works contribute to the preservation and transmission of traditional values in modern society. Through an analysis of his key characters, the article underscores the role of literature in shaping cultural identity and fostering a sense of belonging among youth in a rapidly changing world. By intertwining universal themes with local traditions, Rashidov’s works continue to influence generations, helping them maintain cultural continuity while embracing global perspectives. Keywords: Sharof Rashidovich Rashidov, “Kashmir Song,” “Stronger than the Storm,” literary characters, Uzbek youth, value formation, globalization, cultural identity, moral guidance INTRODUCTION In today’s rapidly globalizing world, the preservation and transmission of cultural values are becoming increasingly challenging. Global influences permeate all aspects of life, posing the risk of diluting or losing traditional values and unique cultural identities. For societies striving to adapt to modernity while safeguarding their cultural heritage, this presents a significant challenge. From this perspective, literature plays a vital role, with its power to inspire, educate, and provide moral guidance. Sharof Rashidovich Rashidov, a prominent figure in Uzbek literature, is celebrated for creating literary characters that reflect the cultural and moral ideals of Uzbek society. His works include novels, poems, epics, and essays, all imbued with a unique talent for portraying virtuous values. According to scholars, “Through his exceptional talent, Rashidov created novels and stories, poems and epics, as well as journalistic essays that extol noble values” [1, p. 257]. Rashidov’s characters are not mere fictional creations; they are deeply rooted in Uzbekistan’s historical and spiritual traditions. These characters exemplify traditional values such as honor, integrity, and determination, making them role models for contemporary youth. Methods “One of Rashidov’s most renowned works, “Kashmir Song,” is among the most widely disseminated works of Uzbek literature globally. This small prose epic, interspersed with poetic fragments, has been translated into 56 languages. Why has this work resonated so profoundly with so many peoples around the world? The reason lies in its unique celebration of universal themes such as love, freedom, and the struggle for independence, which deeply touch the hearts of all” [2, p. 3]. In “Kashmir Song,” Rashidov’s characters face significant challenges and overcome them with resilience. This raises questions: ISSN: 2582-4686 SJIF 2021-3.261,SJIF 20222.889, 2024-6.875 ResearchBib IF: 9.948 / 2024 VOLUME-5, ISSUE-12 1081 • Can these methods be applied to the challenges faced by today’s Uzbek youth? • How do Rashidov’s characters and their values of “life and love” compare to those of modern youth? • How can we bridge these differences? In a globalized world, Uzbek youth may encounter new obstacles in their pursuit of a good life. How can Rashidov’s characters inspire and guide them in such conditions? Despite facing countless hardships, the literary characters created by the author, such as Bambur and Nargiz, embody resilience and selflessness in the pursuit of great virtue. These characters overcome innumerable obstacles and challenges, demonstrating steadfastness and dedication, which serve as a moral compass for Uzbek youth. Their perseverance teaches young people the value of endurance in the face of difficulties. In an increasingly unpredictable, globalized world, the ability to endure trials is essential for both individual and collective progress. “Life and love face thousands of obstacles, engage in battles with countless rivals and enemies, and endure immense sacrifices. Yet, all these struggles and losses are part of the journey toward progress and prosperity. This struggle comes with its pains and tribulations, but also its joys and victories. The dominance and triumph of life and love are the fruits of this battle” [3, p. 36]. The duality in the story—represented by the creative forces of Bambur and Nargiz and the destructive forces of Boron and Khorud—portrays moments of both suffering and triumph. This balanced perspective helps young readers appreciate the full spectrum of human experiences and prepares them to navigate life’s peaks and valleys. Result The idea that life and love are intrinsically linked to struggle and conflict resonates with existentialist philosophy, which emphasizes that existence is defined by the challenges we face and the responses we choose. This duality reflects the human condition described by thinkers like Friedrich Nietzsche, who highlighted the coexistence of suffering and joy as essential components of life. The notion of “thousands of obstacles” and “thousands of rivals and enemies” embodies the existential view that life is a series of tests that shape our existence. The emphasis on struggle as a pathway to progress can also be interpreted through the lens of existential authenticity. Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Martin Heidegger stressed the importance of confronting and embracing life’s inherent struggles to live authentically. From this perspective, the process of overcoming obstacles imbues life with meaning and enables individuals to realize their true selves. This concept aligns with the philosophy of vitalism, which views life as a dynamic, self-overcoming force. Vitalist thinkers like Henri Bergson characterized life as a process of constant adaptation and growth, driven by an inner creative impulse (élan vital). When interpreted through a dialectical framework, progress is achieved by resolving contradictions and conflicts. For instance, Hegel’s dialectic considers history as a process of thesis-antithesissynthesis, where each stage of development involves overcoming opposition and striving toward a higher state of being. “Агар бирлашсак, дўстлар, Ҳар қандай ёв қочади: Тўғри, кичик юлдузлар Бирлашиб нур сочадм” [4, p. 45]. “If we unite, friends, Any foe will flee; ISSN: 2582-4686 SJIF 2021-3.261,SJIF 20222.889, 2024-6.875 ResearchBib IF: 9.948 / 2024 VOLUME-5, ISSUE-12 1082 True, small stars together Shine bright in unity” The idea of “unity” underscores the necessity of cooperation and community for human flourishing. Philosophers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau and John Stuart Mill emphasized the importance of social contracts that embody unity and the strength that arises from individuals uniting to form cohesive societies. Rousseau’s concept of the general will—where individuals come together to achieve shared goals—resonates with the idea that unity can overcome challenges. The universal implication of unity reflects a collective response to an undefined “threat” that could be internal (such as societal divisions) or external (such as oppression or natural disasters). Unity, as depicted in the author’s work, becomes a metaphor for strength, resilience, and the ability to transcend challenges, serving as a timeless lesson for individuals and communities. By examining these questions, the article sheds light on the enduring relevance of Rashidov’s literary works and characters in fostering moral and cultural development among young generations in an ever-changing world. “Small Stars” Represents Uniqueness. Stars shine on their own, but when they come together in the night sky, they create a deeper and more beautiful light. This metaphor aligns with Aristotle’s idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. When individuals (stars) unite, they create something far more magnificent and impactful than they could achieve alone. The call to “Shine Together” offers a shared purpose and collective enlightenment. “Кимгаки золимлик, тубанлик одат – Бўларкан, тупроққа тенг бўлур албат. Золимнинг давлати камдан-кам маҳал – Офатдан қолади омон безалал. Ҳиммат камарини боғлаган ҳамон Чумоли енгади шерни бегумон” (p. 94) “He who embraces cruelty and baseness Will surely be leveled with the ground. The power of the tyrant lasts but briefly— A storm spares none in its path. Once determination binds the girdle, An ant can overcome a lion.” This excerpt draws a sharp contrast between the powerful (the “tyrant”) and the seemingly weak (the “ant”). It carries a rich philosophical meaning, inviting reflection on the nature of power, the importance of standing against oppression, and the potential of even the seemingly powerless to create change. The core habits that signify tyrannical power—oppression and blind adherence to outdated practices—ultimately lead to ruin. These views align with those of ancient Greek philosophers Plato and Aristotle, who both highlighted tyranny as the most unstable form of governance. Aristotle, in particular, believed that tyranny inherently self-destructs because it is based on the ruler’s interests rather than the common good, leading to resistance and rebellion. This can be interpreted through the lens of Hegelian dialectics, where the thesis (the tyrant/lion) inevitably meets its antithesis (resistance/ant), resulting in a synthesis (the defeat of tyranny). Similarly, Immanuel Kant stressed that tyrants’ immoral actions should be judged against universal moral laws, emphasizing that tyranny, being inherently unjust, faces opposition and ultimately fails because it contradicts these universal ethical principles. ISSN: 2582-4686 SJIF 2021-3.261,SJIF 20222.889, 2024-6.875 ResearchBib IF: 9.948 / 2024 VOLUME-5, ISSUE-12 1083 By embracing these principles, individuals and societies can find the courage and resolve to overcome tyranny and strive for a more just and equitable world. Discussion Sh.Rashidov’s inspirational novel, “Stronger Than the Storm”, holds a unique place in analyzing the moral world of an individual and the phenomenon of self-organization. How does the novel help readers explore their inner landscapes and grapple with questions of selforganization? By blending ideas of existentialism, stoicism, dialectics, and virtue ethics, we gain deeper insights into resilience, personal growth, and the dynamic interplay between self and society. Expanding this analysis to include cultural, moral, psychological, and literary perspectives offers a comprehensive view of the novel’s influence on individual and collective identity, underscoring its significance in exploring the complexities of human existence. The interaction between “the spiritual world of an individual” and “self-organization” reveals a connection between the inner and outer worlds. This resonates with philosophical debates about the relationship between the individual and society. Analyzing the novel involves studying how the protagonist interacts with society, the impact of external forces on their inner world, and how their self-organization influences—or is influenced by—social structures. The metaphor of being “stronger than the storm” lays a profound foundation for analyzing the internal and external struggles faced by the novel’s characters. Figures like Muratali, Oykiz, Olimjon, Pogodin, and Smirnov, who fight for the well-being of their people, are contrasted with the “stormy” characters such as Chairman Qodirov, the opportunist Sultonov, Abdulloyev, and the sources of various challenges, Nazokat and G‘ofur. These characters embody the metaphor of the storm (p. 307). This metaphorical storm represents the multifaceted challenges individuals face within themselves and their external environments. The internal storm includes personal conflicts, moral dilemmas, and psychological battles experienced by the characters. For instance, Muratali’s dedication to social welfare and Oykiz’s selflessness for national progress demonstrate the importance of inner fortitude and moral resolve in personal growth. This inner storm aligns with the existentialist notion of confronting one’s anxieties and uncertainties to achieve authentic existence, as discussed by philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Søren Kierkegaard. Examining the novel from this philosophical perspective allows us to appreciate literature’s power as a medium for self-reflection. By observing the characters’ struggles against the storm, readers can develop an understanding of their capacity to overcome life’s challenges and cultivate forms of self-organization. Beyond individual characters, the novel also invites us to explore how an entire society resists the storm. Does the storm lead to social fragmentation, or does it strengthen collective identity and a sense of purpose? This enriches our understanding of the social context within the novel. Core Ideas of the Novel Summarized: Resilience. The novel emphasizes resilience as a fundamental virtue. Analyzing how characters respond to the storm enhances our understanding of how perseverance is developed and manifested in the face of challenges. The Interconnection of Individual and Society. The struggles and triumphs of the characters demonstrate the mutual dependency between personal growth and societal progress. In conclusion, the positive qualities and principles of the characters in Rashidov’s “Kashmir Song” and “Stronger Than the Storm” serve as a moral compass and model for readers navigating life in a globalized world. ISSN: 2582-4686 SJIF 2021-3.261,SJIF 20222.889, 2024-6.875 ResearchBib IF: 9.948 / 2024 VOLUME-5, ISSUE-12 1084 References 1. Mirziyoyev Sh.M. Xalqimizning roziligi bizning faoliyatimizga berilgan eng oliy bahodir. - Tashkent, Uzbekistan, 2018. P. 257. 2. Gaybullah as-Salom. Kashmir qo’shig’i: Ikki dil dostoni (Preface). - Tashkent, Sharq, 1997. P. 3. 3. Rashidov Sh. Kashmir qo’shig’i: Ikki dil dostoni. - Tashkent, Sharq, 1997. P. 36. 4. Rashidov Sh. Kashmir qo’shig’i: Ikki dil dostoni. - Tashkent, Sharq, 1997. P. 45. 5. Rashidov Sh. Kashmir qo’shig’i: Ikki dil dostoni. - Tashkent, Sharq, 1997. P. 94. 6. See: Rashidov Sh. Bo’rondan kuchli. - Tashkent, Gafur Ghulom Publishing House of Literature and Art, 1981. Report Title: The Influence of Sh. Rashidov’s Literary Heroes on the Formation of the Values of Uzbek Youth in a Globalized World. Department Name: (3) The Literary Heritage of Sharof Rashidov and the Formation of National and Spiritual Values in Youth. Full Name of the Author Ochilovа Bаxti Murodovnа Date of Birth November 16, 1961 Place of Work (Full name of the official organization, faculty, department) A. Qodiriy Jizzakh State Pedagogical University, Faculty of History, Department of Philosophy, Education, and Law. Organization Address 130100, Uzbekistan, Jizzakh Region, Jizzakh City, Sh. Rashidov Street, 4 Position Professor Academic Degree, Scientific Title Doctor of Philosophy, Professor Phone Number: 99.5571894 Email Address: [email protected]