Uzbek Folk Oral Tradition (Folklore) As An Art: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

This article examines the historical development of Uzbek folk oral tradition (folklore) from ancient times to the present through a retrospective approach. Particular attention is paid to the main historical stages, genre diversity, epic traditions, regional schools of bakhshi performance, and the master–apprentice tradition. The study also considers contemporary challenges related to the preservation and transmission of folklore heritage in the context of globalization and digital technologies. The findings emphasize the importance of scholarly research, digital preservation, and educational integration of Uzbek folklore for safeguarding national cultural heritage and transmitting it to future generations.