The Evolution of Terminology in Urdu Literature: A Historical Overview

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Abstract

The evolution of terminology in Urdu literature has been shaped by a complex interplay of cultural, social, and linguistic factors throughout its history. Emerging from the rich traditions of Persian and Arabic, Urdu literature developed a unique lexicon that has evolved in tandem with the changing socio-political landscapes. The early phases of Urdu literature saw the influence of Persian during the Mughal era, where Persian terms such as "ghazal," "masnavi," and "qaseeda" became prominent. As Urdu continued to grow, the arrival of Islamic mysticism infused the language with spiritual and philosophical terms such as "tasawwuf" (Sufism) and "Ishq" (divine love), adding depth and complexity to its literary expression.The British colonial period introduced new ideas and concepts that further enriched the Urdu vocabulary, with Western terms in philosophy, politics, and social reform becoming part of the literary discourse. The 20th century saw a further expansion of Urdu terminology with the incorporation of terms related to modernism, socialism, and nationalism. These shifts in terminology reflect the changing intellectual currents of the time, from colonialism to post-independence nationalism and modernization. This paper explores the historical trajectory of Urdu literary terminology, highlighting its adaptation and transformation through various historical phases, and emphasizing the impact of cultural and political changes on the development of its lexicon.

Keywords: Urdu literature, terminology, historical evolution, Persian influence, Sufism, British colonial period, modernism, nationalism.