Abstract
This article presents a comprehensive scientific analysis of the image of the youngest son in Kazakh folk tales. The article’s primary goal is to define the role of the youngest son in the folklore system and identify his artistic and ideological functions. The paper analyzes the position of the youngest son in traditional fairy tale plots, his characteristics in comparison with his older brothers, and his role in the development of the plot. The study used comparative analysis, description, and systematization methods. The key qualities of the youngest son are identified as intelligence, resourcefulness, hard work, patience, courage, simplicity, and fairness. Furthermore, the symbolic significance of this image in folklore and its social implications are revealed. The youngest son in fairy tales is often portrayed as a socially vulnerable yet spiritually strong character, embodying the triumph of goodness and justice. This article analyzes well-known Kazakh fairy tales such as “Er Töstık” and “Kerqūla atty Kendebai (Kendebai on horse Kerkula)”. The study demonstrates that the image of the youngest son reflects the Kazakh people’s principles of life, their moral and ethical values, and their attitude toward social justice. Furthermore, the educational, cultural, and cognitive significance of this image is explored, highlighting its relevance to modern society. In general, fairy tales in literature are diverse in genre: they include simple narratives dating back to prehistoric society, heroic tales, and works about everyday life and adventure.