THE LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL INTERPRETATION OF THE “STEPMOTHER” IMAGE IN ENGLISH AND UZBEK LITERARY TEXTS

Abstract

This article undertakes linguocultural analysis of the image of the 'stepmother' in Uzbek and English literature. Within the framework of the study, the images of the mother and stepmother are examined through historical, cultural, and psychological percpectives, and their underlying social and cultural stereotypes are identified and systematized. The stereotypical, and conflict-driven, and often dramatic representations of the stepmother's image in English and Uzbek literary texts are comparatively analyzed . The article explores how authors employ the stepmother figure as a narrative tool to address pressing social issues and to articulate implicit or explicit solutions to them. In addition, special attention is paid to the psychological characteristics of the stepmother, including, her inner world, personal drama, and emotional experiences. The study analyzes the psychological portrait of the stepmother, examining her role within family relationships, as well as social issues highlighted by writers through this image (such as orphanhood, family conflicts, social pressure on women, and conflicts between affection and indifference). Furthermore,the article also examines the transformation of the stepmother image in literary works and stories, focusing on its psychological, ethical and moral aspects, and how it is expressed through linguistic means. The research results help readers understand cultural values and social relationships through literary images, and provide an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of family representations in English and Uzbek literature, their linguocultural characteristics, and the reflection of cultural views in literature. The article possesses both theoretical and practical significance for research in intercultural comparative literary studies, linguocultural studies, and text linguistics, offering methodological insights and analytical perspectives applicable to related fields.