Identity and Ethnic Stereotypes of Nomadic Peoples of Eurasia in Historical Retrospect (Case of Tuvans and Kazakhs)

Abstract

In the article the authors investigate ethnic autostereotypes of Tuvans and Kazakhs, as well as heterostereotypes of other ethnic groups. As part of the study, a retrospective review of written sources on the ancient and medieval nomads of Eurasia was made as well as a comparative analysis of historical stereotypes about Eurasian nomads and modern Tuvans and Kazakhs. The authors identified a common basis of nomadic stereotypes reflected in culture or in ideas about similar elements of “traditional” culture. Based on the comparative analysis of ancient and modern stereotypes, the authors came to the conclusion that they have certain continuity. The authors identified five groups of heterosteric stereotypes and three groups of autostereotypes that arose in antiquity and are used in various forms in the modern cultural and interethnic agenda.