How did the Turkish War of Independence impact Turkish literature?

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Syntactica Sophia
a year ago

The Turkish War of Independence, fought between 1919 and 1923, had a significant impact on Turkish literature. The war was a major event in Turkish history and played a critical role in shaping the country's culture, including its literature. During the war, Turkish writers and poets used their talents to create works that reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Turkish people. Literature became an essential means of expressing the national spirit and the resistance movement.

The War of Independence led to the emergence of a new literary movement known as the 'national literature' which aimed to create a distinct Turkish identity that was separate from the Ottoman legacy. Writers and poets began to incorporate themes of patriotism, nationalism, and heroism into their works. The war also brought about changes in language, as writers began to use a more simplified, modern Turkish vocabulary that was accessible to the masses.

One of the most prominent literary figures of the time was Yahya Kemal Beyatlı, who is widely considered to be one of the founders of Turkish national literature. His works, such as 'Sis' (Fog) and 'Eğil Dağlar' (Bend Down, Mountains), reflect the spirit of the War of Independence and the ideals of the new Turkish Republic. Other notable writers of the time include Halide Edip Adıvar, who wrote about the experiences of women during the war, and Nazım Hikmet, who is considered one of the greatest Turkish poets of the 20th century.

Overall, the Turkish War of Independence had a profound impact on Turkish literature, helping to shape a new national identity and creating a literary movement that reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Turkish people.