Abstract
<jats:p>The article analyzes the genesis, semantic essence, and artistic function of the “Kal” character, which occupies an important place in Uzbek oral folk literature, based on folklore samples. The study demonstrates that although the “Kal” figure is often portrayed in fairy tales and epics as outwardly comical, naïve, or weak, in essence he appears as a symbol of intelligence, wisdom, and truth. Furthermore, his role as a representative of the hardworking common people and as a hero struggling against oppression and social injustice is revealed. The article comparatively examines the common and distinctive features of the “Kal” character in Turkic folklore and substantiates, on the basis of scholarly sources, the connection of this image with mythological beliefs, initiation rituals, and mask cults. In particular, the comic, magical, and symbolic layers of Janjalkal and other “Kal” characters are analyzed through the examples of such epics as Malla Savdogar, Qunduz bilan Yulduz, Ravshanxon, and Yozi bilan Zebo, as well as folk tales. The study concludes that the “Kal” character represents a multilayered folkloric image expressing the people’s aesthetic thinking, social views, and artistic ideals.</jats:p>