European International Journal of Philological Sciences
111
https://eipublication.com/index.php/eijps
TYPE
Original Research
PAGE NO.
111-112
DOI
OPEN ACCESS
SUBMITED
30 April 2025
ACCEPTED
28 May 2025
PUBLISHED
30 June 2025
VOLUME
Vol.05 Issue 06 2025
COPYRIGHT
© 2025 Original content from this work may be used under the terms
of the creative commons attributes 4.0 License.
The Creation of Abdulla
Qodiriy’s “
Scorpion from
The Altar
”
Saliyeva Nigora Ikromovna
Samarkand State Institute of Foreign Languages, Uzbekistan
Abstract
: Abdulla Qodiriy made a significant
contribution to Uzbek literature as one of the founders
of realistic prose and the historical novel genre. His work
“Scorpion from the Altar,” written in 1934, explores the
ideological clashes between the Jadid movement,
enlightenment ideals, and forces of traditional thinking.
Drawing on literary and historical events, the novel
critically portrays the complex socio-political dynamics
of society, particularly during the oppressive reign of
Khudoyorkhan. At its core, this work reflects the
author’s strong sense of justice, deep historical
awareness, and concern for the people's fate.
Introduction:
Abdulla Qodiriy made a significant
contribution to Uzbek literature as one of the founders
of realistic prose and the historical novel genre. His work
“Scorpion from the Altar,” written in 1934, explores the
ideological clashes between the Jadid movement,
enlightenment ideals, and forces of traditional thinking.
Drawing on literary and historical events, the novel
critically portrays the complex socio-political dynamics
of society, particularly during the oppressive reign of
Khudoyorkhan. At its core, this work reflects the
author’s strong sense of justice, deep historical
awareness, and concern for the people's fate.
In the 1920s, though influenced by Soviet ideology,
Qodiriy continued to write with independent thought
and a deep sense of national identity. In “Scorpion from
the Altar,” he depicts the 19th
-century Kokand Khanate,
focusing on the tyranny of Khudoyorkhan, and exposing
corruption, careerism, and the harsh oppression of the
people. The novel was created using both historical
documents and oral folk traditions, making it a forward-
thinking and ideologically rich piece of literature.
Through this novel, the author advocates for resistance
European International Journal of Philological Sciences
112
https://eipublication.com/index.php/eijps
European International Journal of Philological Sciences
against oppression, women’s liberation, and the ideals
of enlightenment. Historical events are vividly brought
to life through artistic imagery.
The title of the novel is symbolic: the “altar” stands for
holiness and justice,
while the “scorpion” represents
betrayal and evil. These contrasting images reveal the
deep societal contradictions of the time.
The main characters
—
a progressive teacher and a
reactionary mullah
—
symbolize the clash between new
and old ideologies. The teacher represents knowledge
and progress, while the mullah seeks to maintain
ignorance under the guise of religion. Through the
characters of Anvar and Ra’no, themes such as love,
loyalty, trust, patriotism, and enlightenment are
explored. Khudoyorkhan is portrayed as a tyrant who
sacrifices humanity for power and ambition.
The
figurative
language,
detailed
historical
background, and realistic character development
enhance the literary value of the novel.
“Scorpion from the Altar” made a powerful impact on
the public and was praised by the literary community.
However, it also led to Qodiriy’s political persecution—
an indication of how truthfully, he portrayed reality.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, “Scorpion from the Altar” is a unique
work in which Qodiriy skillfully merges independent
thinking, historical insight, social critique, and national
ideals. The novel stands as a symbol of national
awakening, addressing the people’s past while fulfilling
both literary and spiritual roles. Through this work,
Qodiriy emerges as a visionary writer who held a
mirror to his society
—
his message remains relevant
even today.
REFERENCES
Mirzaev M. The creative heritage of Abdulla Qodiriy.
–
Tashkent, “Fan”, 1986. –
220 p.
Qodiriy A. Scorpion from the Altar.
–
Tashkent, “Gafur
G
hulom Publishing House of Literature and Art”, 1994.
–
149 p.
Yusufova M. Historicism and artisticism in the works of
Abdulla Qodiriy.
–
Tashkent, “Isteedod”, 2017. –
176 p.
