Azerbaijani Identity in the Literary Thought of the Republic

Abstract : The article examines the concept of Azerbaijaniism (Turkism, Islamism, Modernism) in the literature of the Republic period. It is demonstrated that the establishment of the state left a noticeable impact on artistic thought, leading to the rise of a national spirit. During this period, literary imagination encountered a new direction. As a result, the ideas of Azerbaijaniism that had emerged in the literary and socio-political thought of the early twentieth century paved the way for the establishment of the Republic. After the newly founded state was officially named “Azerbaijan,” the literary imagination increasingly celebrated the nation and its just cause. M. Hadi’s creative work during the Republic era represents a new stage, as the poet glorified the independence and sovereignty achieved by Azerbaijan. In A. Shaig’s works as well, Turkism, Turanism, national identity, and Azerbaijaniism acquired a renewed direction. In the literary output of poets such as Davud, Zulfugar Bey, and Ali Kami, the national symbols and attributes of the Azerbaijani state were praised. All these factors indicate that, during the Republic period, Azerbaijaniism became focused on the Republic itself, reflecting the determination of the people and the nation to protect their homeland, freedom, and independence.