Shahnameh, Persian literary pillar – good news agency

Shahnameh, written by Ferdowsi, is one of the must-read books from Iran’s literature. The poetry has been translated into some languages, including English and French.

Literature, and especially poetry, is a key part of Iran’s culture, which is thousands of years old. It holds a very high and important position among the Iranian people.

Ferdowsi’s great work, the Shahnameh (Book of Kings), shines brightly like a star in the vast and beautiful collection of Persian writing.

The Shahnameh is a book of epic poems by the famous Iranian poet Ferdowsi. It tells the historical stories of Iran from the time before Islam.

The Shahnameh is the longest epic poem in the world, written by one person. It is the most important epic for Persian-speaking people and includes the early history of Iran.

Shahnameh has inspired many poets who write new poetry in the Persian language.

He spent 30 years writing his great book, the Shahnameh. In doing this, he took a very important step to protect and save the Persian culture and language.

With more than 60,000 verses, the Shahnameh is one of the most important epic books worldwide. It contains the myths, legends, and history of early Iranian kingdoms like the Pishdadian, Kayanian, Parthian, and Sasanian.

In truth, the Shahnameh is like a love letter. It is a letter filled with grand, epic pictures, deep thoughts, mysterious beauty, love for one’s country, care for all people, chivalry, bravery, and a love for freedom.

Abulqasim Firdowsi Tusi, or Ferdowsi, was born around 940 A.D. in Paj village in northwestern Iran. This place is in today’s North Khorasan Province. He died around 1020 A.D.

The most famous story narrated in Shahnameh is “Rostam’s Seven Labors”.

Rostam is the ultimate superhero of ancient Persian mythology. Think of him as Iran’s version of Hercules—but with a lot more poetry and a legendary horse named Rakhsh.

The legendary tale of Rostam’s Seven Labors stands as one of the most celebrated stories in the Shahnameh.

This narrative, familiar to many Iranians and appreciated worldwide, vividly depicts Rostam’s heroic efforts to rescue King Keykavus of Iran from the clutches of the White Demon.

Throughout his arduous journey, Rostam faces seven major challenges, each illustrating his bravery, strength, and resilience.

His first battle involves a fierce confrontation alongside his loyal horse Rakhsh against a lion.

He then endures crossing a harsh and unforgiving desert, battles a formidable dragon, and eliminates a dangerous sorcerer. The hero continues by fighting the offspring of Mrazban, duels with the mighty Arzhang Div, and finally faces the White Demon in a decisive battle.

These episodes are rich in intricate details, creating a captivating narrative that heightens the excitement and admiration of storytellers and readers alike.

Beyond its thrilling content, the story offers a deep insight into Iranian cultural values, heroism, and spiritual beliefs, reflecting the enduring spirit of Persian tradition.

Rostam’s legendary seven labors remain an essential part of Iran’s cultural and literary heritage, illustrating the timeless power of myth and heroism.

The French version of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, called the “Persian Book of Kings,” was published in France. It was translated by Pierre Lecoq and released by the publishing company Les Belles Lettres.

The English version of the masterpiece, called “The Epic of the Persian Kings,” has been translated by Ahmad Sadri.

The Shahnameh is so much more than an old book of stories. It is the very heart of Persia, captured in ink and verse. Ferdowsi did more than just write poems; he built a bridge across time.

He took the myths, the history, and the language of a civilization that was in danger of fading away and made them eternal. For thirty years, he wove together tales of demons and kings, of love for one’s country and the struggle for freedom, ensuring that the Persian identity would have a permanent home.

His greatest creation, the hero Rostam, and the thrilling saga of the Seven Labors, give us a perfect example.

It is not just an exciting adventure; it is a lesson in bravery, loyalty, and resilience. It shows us what it means to face impossible challenges for a greater cause.

This is why the Shahnameh has never been forgotten. It lives on in the hearts of Persian speakers, a testament to their rich culture.

And now, through the wonderful work of translators, this treasure is being unlocked for the world.

As new English and French versions appear on bookshelves from Paris to New York, people everywhere can discover Rostam and his legendary horse, Rakhsh. They can learn about the deep cultural values that have shaped Iran for centuries.

Reported by Tohid Mahmoudpour