Translating Ethnocultural Markers in Oralkhan Bokeev's Prose: Interplay of Translation Strategies, Cultural Context, and Literary Significance

This paper explores the challenges and strategies involved in translating ethnocultural markers in the prose of Oralkhan Bokeev, a prominent Kazakh writer. Positioned at the intersection of translation theory, cultural studies, and literary analysis, the study investigates how translators balance the preservation of culturally specific elements with the need for clarity and coherence in the target language. Drawing on theoretical frameworks such as equivalence, domestication versus foreignization, as well as functionalist and postcolonial approaches, the analysis reveals the complexities inherent in rendering culture-bound terms, images, and concepts. Through a qualitative-quantitative examination of Bokeev's translated works, the paper identifies key ethnocultural terms and assesses their translations across various versions. It classifies the strategies employed – ranging from direct transfer to adaptation – and evaluates their effectiveness in terms of cultural fidelity and reader accessibility. The findings demonstrate that the translation of ethnocultural markers is not a mere linguistic process but a nuanced act of cultural mediation, which plays a crucial role in shaping the literary integrity and reception of the work in the target context. Ultimately, the study argues for a balanced translation approach that maintains the identity of the source culture while effectively engaging the target audience. This research contributes to broader discussions on translating culturally rich literature and underscores the translator's role as both linguistic and cultural negotiator.