Ahmet Baytursınov ve Mehmet Akif Ersoy’un Şiirlerindeki Vatan Sevgisi Motifi

Abstract

Ahmet Baytursınov and Mehmet Akif Ersoy are two prominent poets who experienced the challenges of the same era and produced works guided by similar ideals. The common themes in their works include a deep love for the homeland, a quest for freedom, and efforts to enlighten the people. Both poets steadfastly fought against the social issues of ignorance, poverty, religious exploitation, and oppressive regimes, reflecting these struggles in their poems and writings with the goal of awakening their societies. Mehmet Akif’s works, such as "Süleymaniye Kürsüsünde" and "Fatih Kürsüsünde", vividly depict the religious and social problems of the time, while Baytursınov’s works, such as “Masa” and “Kırk Mısal”, hold a significant place in Kazakh literature and convey messages aimed at deepening the awareness of independence. Each poet used literature and the press not just as a tool for individual expression but as a means to educate the people and mobilize society. They championed not only their own nations but also universal values, and their works continue to carry timeless messages today. This study examines the themes of patriotism, freedom, and enlightenment in Baytursınov and Akif’s works, highlighting how these poets not only identified social deficiencies but also proposed solutions. Both poets made great contributions to their peoples and left profound marks in the fields of literature and thought. The recognition of these two significant figures by a wider audience and the deeper exploration of their works are of utmost importance. Their cultural, literary, and intellectual legacy is not limited to their era but holds the potential to illuminate future generations. This study aims to disseminate Baytursınov and Akif’s ideas and works to broader audiences and to provide a foundation for further academic research in this field. Future comprehensive studies will strengthen the shared cultural ties within the Turkic world and ensure that these two distinguished figures receive the recognition they deserve. Keywords: Ahmet Baytursınov, Mehmet Akif Ersoy, Kırk Mısal, Masa (Mosquito) Poems, Safahat, Patriotism, Freedom, Motif.