GENDER IMAGES IN ENGLISH AND UZBEK LITERATURE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

This article provides a comparative analysis of gender images in English and Uzbek literature, exploring how male and female characters are portrayed within their respective historical and cultural contexts. It examines the evolution of gender roles, from medieval and classical depictions to modern representations, highlighting key figures such as Chaucer’s Wife of Bath, Shakespeare’s Lady Macbeth, and Navoi’s Shirin. The study identifies similarities, such as the historical confinement of women to traditional roles, and differences, including the earlier emergence of feminist themes in English literature compared to the later influence of the Jadid movement and post-independence developments in Uzbek literature. By analyzing these portrayals, the article underscores the reflection of societal norms, the impact of cultural shifts, and the gradual progression toward gender equality in both literary traditions. Key themes include patriarchy, independence, stereotypes, and the interplay of romantic and social ideals.