Abstract
This article examines a topic relevant to contemporary literary studies, focusing on the theory and classification of motifs as well as the procedure of motif analysis in prose texts. It is essential to emphasize that motifs serve as a fundamental element in the narrative structure of a text, making their use in analysis and interpretation highly indicative. As recurring elements within a literary work, motifs endow it with meaning and reflect its central themes and ideas. The novelty of this research lies in the motif analysis of Ilyas Yesenberlin’s artistic prose, specifically his novel “The Lovers”. The article provides an overview of scholarly literature on motif theory in modern literary studies and presents classifications of motifs proposed by various researchers. In the practical section, the study identifies the specific functions of motifs within the text, their connections with the plot, composition, and artistic expressive means. The research highlights how motifs complement and interact with one another within the text, forming a unified semantic field. The analysis of Ilyas Yesenberlin’s novel reveals its central ideas, key themes, and values significant to the author. Through motif analysis and interpretation, the study uncovers hidden meanings and subtext within the work. The practical significance of the article lies in its potential application in disciplines dealing with motif theory, motif analysis of literary texts, the history of 20th-century Kazakh literature, and related fields.