The translation of the epic Manas into English: Introducing the world to Kyrgyz national heritage.
A guest lecture entitled “The Translation of the Epic Manas into English” was held for second- and third-year students of the Department of English Language and Literature at the Institute of Philology of Jalal-Abad State University. The guest speaker was Akylai Baimatova Zhamalbekovna.
Akylai Baimatova Zhamalbekovna is a graduate of lyceum no. 14 in the city of Jalal-Abad. She currently works at a school in the United States, continuing her professional career in the field of education. Her experience working abroad and developing professionally within an international educational environment serves as an inspiring example for young people in Kyrgyzstan, particularly for students studying English. The guest lecture enabled students to recognize the practical importance of learning foreign languages, learn about international experience in education, and reflect on their future career opportunities.
The main objective of the event was to broaden students’ knowledge of the specific features of translating the epic Manas into English, the significance of conveying national values through another language, and the linguistic and cultural challenges that arise when translating literary works.
During the lecture, special attention was given to the place of the epic Manas in the history, culture, and spiritual life of the Kyrgyz people. It was emphasized that, as the epic has been passed down from generation to generation, it has preserved the people’s historical memory, worldview, traditions, and national identity. The discussion also explored the role of translation and the potential of the English language in promoting the epic Manas among international audiences.
During the meeting with Akylai Baimatova Zhamalbekovna, participants discussed the challenges of conveying concepts specific to the Kyrgyz language and culture, national cultural identity, heroic characters, literary devices, and the profound meaning of the work in another language. Particular emphasis was placed on the fact that, in order to present the national concepts reflected in the epic accurately and accessibly to English-speaking readers, translators must not only have a strong command of the language but also possess a deep understanding of the historical and cultural context of the work.
Furthermore, the guest lecture helped students majoring in English Language and Literature develop an understanding of the responsibility involved in translation, the close relationship between language and culture, and the role of specialists in promoting national literature internationally. Such meetings enable students to expand their theoretical knowledge, gain insight into practical experience, and establish goals for their future professional development.
Another important aspect of the event was raising young people’s awareness of the importance of promoting the rich literary and spiritual heritage of the Kyrgyz people worldwide. Translating the epic Manas into English is not merely a matter of transferring words from one language to another; it is a significant cultural undertaking aimed at introducing other peoples to the national culture, history, and spiritual values of the Kyrgyz people.
Guest lectures organized by the Department of English Language and Literature at the Institute of Philology of Jalal-Abad State University aim to broaden students’ horizons, increase their interest in learning foreign languages, and strengthen their respect for national heritage. The meeting featuring Akylai Baimatova Zhamalbekovna was an informative educational event that enabled students to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between education and culture, as well as the importance of promoting the spiritual heritage of the Kyrgyz people on the international stage.
