Abstract
The relevance of the study lies in the fact that in modern literary studies, the genesis and the process of development of epistolary literature are rather neglected.The purpose of this study is to investigate the epistolary genre in Kazakh and Turkish literature and why it attracts modern readers.Methods such as synthesis, analogy, deduction, and comparative, system, logical, and content analyses were employed in the study.The paper considers the definition of the epistolary genre, discusses the main features of letters, theoretical specifics, and approaches to its application in modern literary studies.The study examines the development of the genre of epistolary prose in Kazakh and Turkish literature; by comparison, the works of world literature are considered.An overview is provided of research papers in global literary studies that explore the questions of the epistolary genre and its application in works of fiction.It is shown that in both Kazakh and Turkish literature, letters are used to discuss feelings and reflections, human psychology, and social problems.The study of the development of the epistolary genre in both countries shows that it developed in parallel.In the works considered, the thoughts and communication of the main characters expressed in letters are sincere and open and reflect the identity, culture, and flavour of the people.The purpose was achieved: the concept of the epistolary genre was defined, its features in the modern context were revealed, its use in Kazakh and Turkish literature was analysed, and a review of world literature was conducted.The study's practical significance lies in its ability to use the main provisions and conclusions of the analysed material to conduct classes in literary studies, linguistics, and literary history related to the epistolary genre.