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A COMPARATIVE DEPICTION OF FIGURATIVE IMAGES IN ENGLISH AND
UZBEK LITERARY WORKS
Tilavoldiyeva Solihabonu Valisher qizi
Phone: +998 77 180 12 53
Uzbekistan State World Languages University
Faculty: Philology: English Language
Year: 3rd-year student
Shodiya Ismoilova
English Philology Department’s Teacher
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15583737
Annotation
This article presents a comparative analysis of figurative (symbolic) images in English
and Uzbek folk tales. The research focuses on the English folk tale “Jack and the Beanstalk”
and the Uzbek folk tale “Rustamxon”. Both stories are examined through the lens of their main
characters, magical helpers, evil forces, and the trials faced by the heroes, each interpreted as
figurative images. These elements are explored to understand the moral, ethical, and
educational values conveyed through them.
The findings show that figurative imagery in folk oral traditions serves as a universal
artistic device. While these images may reflect the unique cultural characteristics of each
nation, they collectively aim to express shared human values and ideals. The article uses a
comparative literary approach to shed light on the cultural and spiritual perspectives
embedded in these folk narratives.
Keywords:
folk tales, figurative image, comparative analysis, Rustamxon, Jack and the
Beanstalk, oral folklore, symbolic meaning, literary image, cultural worldview, pragmatic
approach, educational message.
INTRODUCTION
Literature is a powerful cultural phenomenon that reflects the national mindset, values,
and aspirations of a people. In both English and Uzbek literature, figurative images—
characters, objects, or events carrying symbolic meaning—play a central role in imparting
ethical and aesthetic depth to literary works.
1
This article conducts a comparative study of symbolic figures in selected folk tales from
both cultures. Specifically, it analyzes “Rustamxon”, a classic Uzbek folk tale, and “Jack and the
Beanstalk”, a well-known English fairy tale, to explore the similarities and differences in their
figurative imagery and the broader cultural implications.
Comparative Analysis of Figurative Images in “Rustamxon” and “Jack and the Beanstalk”
1. Main Character – Symbol of Social Struggle and Inner Strength
In both tales, the protagonist is a young boy from a poor, disadvantaged background. In
“Rustamxon”, the hero lives with his mother in hardship after the loss of his father. Similarly,
Jack is depicted as a boy growing up in poverty with his mother.
These characters symbolically represent:
• The dream of a fair and just society;
1
the concept of figurative imagery in literature refers to characters, objects, and scenarios that symbolize broader
meanings beyond their literal existence.
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• The dignity of hard work;
• The triumph of intellect and courage over brute strength.
Despite their difficult circumstances, both characters achieve success through bravery
and cleverness, symbolizing the belief that one’s character, not social class, determines their
fate.
2
2. Magical Helpers and Fantastical Elements
In “Rustamxon”, the hero gains strength through a magical carrot and a talking horse.
These helpers guide him and assist in overcoming challenges.
In “Jack and the Beanstalk”, Jack acquires magical beans that grow into a giant beanstalk,
leading him to a mystical realm inhabited by a giant. The beanstalk represents a bridge
between the earthly and the extraordinary.
These elements symbolically represent:
• The magical carrot and beans: new opportunities, inner strength, turning points in life;
• The talking horse: wisdom, spiritual guidance;
• The growing beanstalk: growth, hope, aspiration, and the journey toward dreams.
3. Antagonist – Representation of Fear and Obstacles
In both tales, evil forces present major challenges for the hero. In “Rustamxon”, a demon
or dragon serves as the primary antagonist, emdiving physical and emotional trials. In “Jack
and the Beanstalk”, the giant plays a similar role.
These figures symbolically represent:
• Fear;
• Danger;
• The struggle against oppressive or evil powers.
Defeating these villains reflects the hero’s transformation and the broader theme of
overcoming adversity to achieve personal growth.
4. Moral and Educational Lessons
Both stories emphasize core moral values such as honesty, bravery, and perseverance.
Through symbolic imagery, the tales convey:
• Patience, hard work, and wisdom lead to success;
• Good always triumphs over evil;
• One must seize opportunities (e.g., magic beans or carrot as metaphors for life-
changing chances);
3
• Inner strength and moral courage matter more than physical power.
5. National Characteristics and Universal Values
The Uzbek tale reflects Eastern traditions and values such as:
• Deep spiritual insight;
• Communication with animals;
• Emphasis on patience and moral strength.
In contrast, the English tale leans more toward:
• Pragmatism;
• Financial gain;
2
Folklore serves as a vehicle for cultural transmission, often embedding national identity, morals, and history within
its narratives.
3
Talking animals or magical creatures in Uzbek tales often function as spiritual guides, reflecting Sufi and animistic
influences in the region's folklore.
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• Resourcefulness and quick thinking.
Despite these cultural differences, both tales ultimately highlight similar universal
values: the importance of resilience, the triumph of good over evil, and the celebration of
personal growth through trials.
he dream of upward mobility;
The triumph of moral character over inherited status.
The character of Rustamxon especially embodies Eastern philosophical ideals such as
patience and moral growth, while Jack reflects a Western pragmatism and bold initiative. Yet
both characters reinforce a common belief: that the individual can rise above their
circumstances through inner strength and brave action.
4
2. Magical Helpers – Spiritual Aid and Transformative Forces
A defining feature of both tales is the presence of magical elements that assist the hero.
These do not merely advance the plot—they symbolize inner potential and transformative life
opportunities.
In Rustamxon, the talking horse and the magical carrot serve as guides and enhancers of
strength. The horse, in particular, represents spiritual wisdom and companionship, common
themes in Eastern tales that emphasize communication with animals and the harmony of man
with nature.
Meanwhile, in Jack and the Beanstalk, the magic beans serve as a metaphor for life-
changing decisions or risks. The beans sprout into a towering beanstalk—a bridge between
the mundane and the mystical. This ascent mirrors Jack’s inner development and his boldness
to explore the unknown.
Symbolically, these elements represent:
Magical carrot and beans: pivotal moments, new beginnings, untapped potential;
Talking horse: spiritual guidance, ancestral wisdom;
Beanstalk: personal growth, hope, ascent toward one’s dreams.
Thus, magical helpers in both tales symbolize the hidden strengths and timely
interventions that enable the hero to achieve greatness.
3. Antagonists – Personification of Evil and Inner Demons
Every hero’s journey is marked by trials. The antagonists—whether a dragon or a
giant—are not only physical threats but also representations of internal and societal
challenges.
In Rustamxon, the dragon reflects complex fears—physical danger, moral temptation,
and social injustice. Its defeat symbolizes the hero’s moral and psychological victory over fear
and evil.
In Jack and the Beanstalk, the giant is a metaphor for oppression and greed. Jack's theft
of gold and eventual killing of the giant suggest a confrontation with power structures and
moral ambiguity—was Jack’s act heroic or opportunistic?
Despite this moral tension, the giant ultimately serves as a test of courage and
cleverness.
These antagonists symbolically represent:
Dragons and giants: fear, moral challenge, oppressive forces;
4
Jack and the Beanstalk has been traced back to oral versions dating from the 18th century in England, with the first
printed version appearing in 1807
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Victory over evil: personal growth, societal justice, the power of good.
By overcoming these figures, both heroes demonstrate the value of resilience and
righteousness, echoing ancient mythological and religious narratives.
4. Moral Messages – Ethical Instruction Through Symbolism
A central function of folklore is moral instruction. Both Rustamxon and Jack and the
Beanstalk promote ethical values, often embedded in symbolic motifs and narrative choices.
The tales stress virtues such as:
Bravery in adversity;
Intelligence over strength;
Honesty, diligence, and perseverance;
Faith in oneself and unseen forces.
For example, the magic carrot is not just nourishment—it is the reward for faith and
patience. The beans, thrown away in frustration, grow only when planted—a metaphor for
faith in small beginnings.
Thus, the symbolic elements in both tales transform everyday objects into carriers of
wisdom. They teach young readers the importance of:
Trusting intuition;
Staying persistent;
Seizing unexpected opportunities.
5. Cultural Identity and Universal Themes
5
Despite cultural specificities, both tales express core human values. However, their
figurative frameworks reflect distinct worldviews.
CONCLUSION
A comparative analysis of “Rustamxon” and “Jack and the Beanstalk” demonstrates that
despite originating from different cultures, both tales share deep cultural and educational
commonalities. The heroes, though raised in poverty without a father, succeed through
intelligence, bravery, and spiritual strength.
The magical elements, villains, and fantastical journeys symbolize each nation’s
historical experiences and ethical outlook. Uzbek literature emphasizes patience, inner
maturity, and moral development, while English literature highlights quick decisions and
practical solutions.
In conclusion, figurative images in these tales reflect the spiritual and cultural
consciousness of their respective societies. They serve as powerful educational tools,
encouraging young readers to embrace courage, hard work, wisdom, and goodness in their
lives.
References:
Используемая литература:
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5
The character of Rustamxon is a recurring folk archetype in Uzbek oral storytelling, symbolizing the ideal of the brave
and honest youth.
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