18th-Century Events and the Creative Works by Bukhar Zhyrau
On March 16, 2026, at 91传媒 Kazakh National University, an open lecture was conducted under the supervision of E.K. Karbozov, Candidate of Philological Sciences and Assistant Professor of the Department of Kazakh Literature and Literary Theory, and G.Zh. Bolatova, Doctor of Philological Sciences and Assistant Professor. In alignment with SDG 4 – "Quality Education," Balnur Leskhankyzy, a 1st-year PhD student in the "Literary Studies" program, delivered the lecture to 2nd-year students majoring in "Kazakh Philology." The session was part of the course "Kazakh Literature of the 14th-18th Centuries" on the topic: "18th-Century Events and the Creative Works of Bukhar Zhyrau."
The objective of the open lecture is to provide a scientific analysis of the historical and literary characteristics of 18th-century zhyrau poetry and to identify Bukhar Zhyrau’s contribution to the preservation of national identity.
The 18th century was one of the most complex and turbulent periods in Kazakh history. The Dzungar invasion and the colonial policies of neighboring major empires posed a significant threat to the ethnic integrity and state sovereignty of the Kazakh people. During these trying times, it was Bukhar Zhyrau Kalkamanuly who stood by Ablai Khan, offering counsel at critical junctures and leaving the most extensive historical imprint of the era within his creative works. In the dark days when the fate of the nation hung in the balance, the zhyrau provided strategic direction to the Khan and served as a guardian of freedom and independence. The core themes of Bukhar Zhyrau’s Tolghaus (philosophical reflections) are statehood, valor, and the unity of the people.
The open lecture reviewed the historical events of the 18th century and analyzed the artistic representation of historical truth in the poetic works of Bukhar Zhyrau.
Towards the end of the lecture, students shared their opinions regarding the new information presented. Additionally, feedback was collected from the students using the Mentimeter.com platform.
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