Evaluation of Turkish Literature Textbooks-I (1923-1950)

Abstract

In this paper, the content of the Turkish literature textbooks used in high schools during the first period of the Turkish Republic between 1923- 1946 is evaluated. The paper explains that at the beginning of the Republican era, there were mainly two books used, one for literature and the other for basic reading skills. The contents of the textbooks aimed at reflecting the basic principles and ideals of the Republican regime. The books on the history of Turkish Literature were also made use of at this time. The classical works of French Literature started to be introduced in this period as well. Besides these, to provide students with a broader perspective, supplementary sources and the anthologies were also used.