Reader Perception of Dystopian Narrative in Kazakh Literature: A Survey-Based Study of the Discursive Space of “Seksen Altınşı Jyl”

Abstract

This research article examines the discursive space of dystopian elements in Tlegenov’s novel “Seksen Altınşı Jyl” within Kazakh literature, as well as their reception by readers. The study is grounded in reader-response theory and explores not only the characteristics of the dystopian genre but also the levels of reader interpretation. The primary objective of the research is to assess readers’ perceptions of society through dystopian literature, to analyze the features of their understanding and reception, and to empirically determine the cognitive and emotional impact of the work. A total of 147 respondents voluntarily participated in the study. Data were collected via Google Forms and processed using the R statistical software package. The survey was structured according to a four-factor model: the first factor addressed familiarity with the work; the second examined the perception of its dystopian nature; the third focused on historical consciousness and social interpretation; and the fourth considered emotional impact and social significance. The results indicated that readers’ level of familiarity with dystopian prose is relatively low. This trend is characteristic of countries that have experienced totalitarian regimes and gained independence only toward the end of the twentieth century. Nevertheless, the historical period depicted in the novel was highly rated in terms of comprehensibility, and the political system and its ideology were perceived as realistic. The findings suggest that while dystopian literature may be challenging for readers to engage with, it holds significant social importance.