THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE TURKIC LANGUAGE IN THE MIDDLE AGES: THE CASE OF ALISHER NAVOIY

Abstract

The Turkic language underwent a significant transformation during the Middle Ages, evolving from a regional dialect into a powerful literary and administrative medium. At the center of this linguistic renaissance stood Alisher Navoiy, whose literary genius and philological defense established Chagatai Turkic as a language capable of competing with Persian and Arabic. This article examines the historical development of the Turkic language in the medieval period, focusing on Navoiy's deliberate efforts to elevate its status through his monumental works, such as Muhakamat alLughatayn and the Khamsa. By analyzing the socio-political and cultural context of the Timurid Renaissance, the study highlights how Navoiy's legacy shaped national identity, education, and literary traditions in Central Asia.