Genre uniqueness of the documentary novel: the case of Kharyskhal's "The Roads of Bygone Years"

Abstract

The article deals with the genre features of the documentary novel "By the Roads of Bygone Years" ("Aaspytyt kem aartyktarynan", 2021) written by the Yakut writer V. Е. Vasiliev – Kharyskhal. He is the author of historical dramas, which are staged in the theaters of our republic. The writer has created dramas based on archival documents, which reflect the history of Yakut life in the early twentieth century. His work "By the Roads of Bygone Years" ("Aaspytyt kem aartyktarynan") is a novel by genre. It is also based on archive materials, memoirs and letters, and is truly documentary. At the same time, the work is characterized by a peculiar artistic form, which is expressed in a special lyrical narration of the author himself, as well as in the ways of revealing the image of the protagonist.The purpose of the research is to study the concept of the documentary novel and to identify its specific features. The article emphasizes that the documentary novel tells about little-known periods and events that are still mysteries. The writer uses personal experiences, including his own impressions and experiences, to create a more emotional connection with the topic and characters. This allows the reader to better understand the author's motivation and special relationship to the story being told.Thus, the study of the documentary novel and its genre features is of great relevance as it allows us to expand our understanding of art and literature. The documentary novel provides a unique opportunity to combine reality and fiction writing, which allows us to better understand and appreciate history, as well as develop our imagination and emotional perception of texts.