Magzhan zhumabaev biography

An outstanding Kazakh writer, publicist, one of the founders of new Kazakh literature. Date of Birth: 25.06.1893 Country: Kazakhstan

Content:

1. Magzhan Zhumabaev: The Pioneer of Modern Kazakh Literature
2. The Literary Journey
3. First Creative Period (1910-1917)
4. Second Creative Period (1917-1924)
5. Controversies and Later Years
6. Legacy and Impact

Magzhan Zhumabaev: The Pioneer of Modern Kazakh Literature

Early Life and Education

Magzhan Zhumabaev, a luminary of Kazakh literature and journalism, was born on June 25, 1893, in the Saunasikyle settlement. Belonging to an affluent family, his father, Beken, held positions as a judge and a district administrator. Zhumabaev's early education focused on Eastern languages and literature.

He continued his studies in Arabic, Persian, and Turkish at the Begishev Madrasah in Kyzyl-Orda, where he received his secondary Muslim education. In 1910, he joined the prestigious Galia Madrasah, a Muslim institution in Ufa. However, influenced by his teacher, writer Galymzhan Ibrahimov, Zhumabaev sought alternative paths for his education.

The Literary Journey

With the support of Ibrahimov, Zhumabaev's early works were published in Kazan in 1912. Guided by Mirzhakyp Dulatov and Ahmed Baytursynov, he immersed himself in Russian and European literature, contributing to the newspaper "Kazakh."

In 1913, he enrolled in the Omsk Teachers' Seminary. During his time there, he played a pivotal role in establishing the "Birlik" (Unity) society, editing its handwritten journal "Balapan."

First Creative Period (1910-1917)

Zhumabaev's innate poetic talent manifested from his early years. His collection "Sholpan" (1912) brought him widespread recognition. In this period, themes of national liberation resounded in his writings, as he boldly delved into history. His poem "The Past" honored heroes of the struggle against oppression.

Second Creative Period (1917-1924)

After the February Revolution, Zhumabaev became a member of the regional committee of the "Alash" party. However, he distanced himself from active political involvement. During this time, he pursued journalism, education, and published his work "Pedagogy" in 1922.

Zhumabaev's move to Tashkent in 1922 marked a fertile period in his career. He composed the epic poem "Batyr Bayan," a cycle of poems about Turkestan, and essays on eminent Kazakh figures. He contributed to the newspaper "Ak Zhol" and the journal "Sholpan."

During this time, Zhumabaev's work exhibited the defining traits of his poetic genius. He sought to connect Eastern and Western literary traditions, embracing artistic trends of the time. Like Western and Russian symbolists, he explored the "otherworldly," delving into the realm of emotions and employing symbolism.

Controversies and Later Years

Despite his acclaimed talent, Zhumabaev faced accusations of nationalism, pan-Turkism, and self-indulgence. These allegations persisted during his studies at the Moscow Literary-Artistic Institute (1923-1926), where he was mentored by Valery Bryusov.

Upon his return to Kazakhstan in 1927, he taught literature, wrote patriotic poems, and created educational materials for children. In 1929, he was falsely imprisoned for ten years, serving his sentence in the North. Thanks to Maxim Gorky's intervention, he was released early in 1935.

However, his freedom was short-lived. He was arrested again on December 30, 1937, based on malicious accusations. On March 19, 1938, Magzhan Zhumabaev was executed in the purge known as the Yezhovschina.

Legacy and Impact

Despite the tragic end to his life, Zhumabaev's literary legacy endured. His works exemplified the highest standards of Kazakh poetry. Critic Z. Aimauytov, in an essay published in 1989, praised Zhumabaev's command of language, his ability to evoke emotions, and his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence.

Zhumabaev's influence on Kazakh literature remains profound. His innovative techniques and introspective style have inspired generations of writers. He is widely regarded as the founder of modern Kazakh literature, leaving an enduring mark on the cultural landscape of his nation.