THE TRANSFORMATION OF THE «PATH» CONCEPT IN TRADITIONAL AND MODERN KAZAKH FOLKTALES

Abstract

Cognitive linguistics makes it possible to examine the cognition and worldview of a nation through the analysis of linguistic units. In this context, the concept of the “path” represents not only a physical space but also a complex structure with mythopoetic and cognitive significance. The aim of this study is to identify the continuity and transformation of the concept of the “path” in traditional and modern Kazakh fairy tales and to describe the degree of preservation of the national code using cognitive approaches. The main research directions focus on revealing the national worldview, mythopoetic function, and national cognitive structure of the “path” concept.

The research material consists of five traditional Kazakh fairy tales (“Er Tostik,” “Kerkula Atti Kendebai,” “Altyn Saka,” “Tazsha Bala,” “Ayaz Bi”) and seven modern Kazakh fairy tales (“Zhihankez Titi,” “Robot pen Altyn Saka,” “Erke-Gloss,” “Flamingo,” “Kunnin Togyz Balasy,” “Tomiris pen Narkyzyl”). The methodological framework includes frame analysis and script-based analysis to identify how the path is represented in fairy tale discourse. The concept of the “path” is structured through frames consisting of stable slots such as origin, space, obstacle, helper, and goal, as well as through a script composed of sequential stages: origin – obstacle – helper – reaching the destination – goal.

The results demonstrate that the concept of the “path” undergoes multi-layered transformation. On the physical level, the path functions as a space of movement and experiential domain for the character. On the cognitive level, the path operates not only as a physical and spiritual trial but also as a script-based model of personal transformation and social experience. On the mythopoetic level, the path emerges as a sacred space and a symbolic code reflecting the collective memory and nomadic destiny of the people.

The findings confirm that the concept of the path preserves historical continuity while evolving in contemporary fairy tales, highlighting its role in cultural transmission. The scientific value of this study lies in its systematic cognitive and mythopoetic analysis of the path concept. The results contribute to cognitive linguistics, linguistic cultural studies, and folklore research, and provide a methodological basis for corpus-based analysis.