What is the Shahnameh and why is it important?
Completed by Abolqasem Ferdowsi in the early 11th Century, the Shahnameh (Book of Kings) is not only a literary masterpiece, but also a book that has for centuries helped define Iran and the Iranian peoples, as well as safeguard the existence of the Persian language.
What is the most important type of tree in the Shahnameh?
The research method is analytical and some of the most important miniatures of Tahmasbi Shahnameh are described based on symbolism literature and other references. In these miniatures, the cypress tree is also the symbol of immortality, great men, eternity, grandeur, goodness, and freedom.
Why was Shahnameh written?
The Shahnameh (“Book of Kings”, composed 977-1010 CE) is a medieval epic written by the poet Abolqasem Ferdowsi (l. c. 940-1020 CE) in order to preserve the myths, legends, history, language, and culture of ancient Persia.
Why was the Shahnameh written?
Should Rostam be considered a hero?
About Rustam Rustam, the son of Zal, stands out as the most celebrated and complex character in the Shahnameh and to this day he is considered Iran greatest folk hero. Known for his extraordinary strength, bravery and loyalty.
What language was the Shahnameh written in?
The popular language for literature at the time The Shahnameh was written was Arabic. Ferdowsi’s choice to craft the poem in Persian, ties it to the Persian community leading it to become of central importance in the Persian culture. This work is considered a literary masterpiece comparable to Homer’s Odyssey.
Why is Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh so important?
Shah Ismail I was also affected deeply by Ferdowsi’s work and his use of the Persian literary tradition of Iran and named all of his sons after characters in the Shahnameh. The poem has tremendous reach and remains the main source of story-telling for the Persian, Pashtun, Kurd, Guran, Talishi, Armenian, Georgian, and North Caucasian peoples.
How did Ferdowsi influence the naming of the rulers of Iran?
Many names used in the epic were adopted in the naming of the rulers of the dynasty. Shah Ismail I was also affected deeply by Ferdowsi’s work and his use of the Persian literary tradition of Iran and named all of his sons after characters in the Shahnameh.