NATIONAL VALUES IN S. S. AXUNDOV'S SHORT STORY "QARACA GIRL"

Written in 1913 and published in the journal Məktəb, S. S. Akhundov’s short story Qaraca qız explores important moral and educational themes. The narrative presents instructive events and human destinies that serve to deepen the reader’s understanding of life. There are two versions of the story. In the first version, Hüseynqulu Agha and Pəricahan Khanum are profoundly affected by Qaraca Girl’s self-sacrifice. They consider themselves responsible for her death and pray to God for the forgiveness of their sins. The second version, which was included for many years in general education “Literature” textbooks, reflects the changes the author was compelled to make in 1936 while preparing his collected works for publication. Anticipating the wave of repression in 1937, the writer made omissions and alterations to shield himself from impending danger. He recast Hüseynqulu Agha and Pəricahan Khanum, who belong to the wealthy landowning class, as negative figures. The original version was later published in Hikmət çələngi (Baku, 1997), compiled by X. Mammadov. In the story, Qaraca Girl, who loses her parents during an earthquake, manages to preserve her purity and natural kindness despite the injustices she faces in life. The death of her foster mother Yasaman in the river, Yusif’s cruelty, and the deprivation she endures in Hüseynqulu Agha’s household all place her under severe trials. Yet she remains steadfast. She lives with trust and affection for those around her, and is remembered for her cheerful and spirited character, optimism, warmth, compassion, and sincerity. Qaraca qız is a folkloric narrative written with high artistic skill. Its success lies in its coherent plot, the logical progression of events, the vivid and natural descriptions, and its realism. The story makes effective use of language, expressions, and a narrative style reminiscent of traditional fairy tales.