Historical-geographic environment and Azerbaijani ethnic poetics: Questions of genesis and typology

Abstract

Geography influences culture and identity by shaping a community's practices, beliefs and values, as the physical environment defines resources, climate and shared history, creating an emotional bond and a sense of belonging to the territory. While much has been written about the general influence of geography on culture, few studies have delved into the specific ethno-cultural and geographic symbiosis that defines the Azerbaijani identity. Additionally, the role of space perception and its symbolic significance in Turkish and Azerbaijani thought remains underexplored, especially in terms of how these elements shape national consciousness and literature. Therefore, this article aims to examine how geographical factors influence the formation of national identity and ethnic poetics, particularly in Azerbaijan. By analyzing the works of prominent thinkers like M.A. Rasulzade, A. Agaoglu, and Z. Gökalp, the paper seeks to uncover how geographical and cultural elements intertwine to shape the worldview of Azerbaijani Turks and their ethnic consciousness, while investigating the philosophical and symbolic significance of spatial concepts in their thought. It was found that Azerbaijani ethnic identity is deeply intertwined with its geographical environment, from its perception of space and time to the symbolic meanings of mountains, water, and settlements. Geographical perceptions in Azerbaijani thought are not only aesthetic but also philosophical, shaping national consciousness and contributing to a unique cultural identity. These ideas are influenced by socio-political factors such as the division of historical Azerbaijani territories and the resulting impact on national culture and literature.