The Shahnameh is one of the great epics of world literature, yet it remains far less known in the English-speaking world than it deserves. Written to celebrate and preserve Persian culture at a time of political and cultural threat, it became a lasting source of language, memory and identity.

This course explores the epic’s themes of fathers and sons, loyalty, courage and difficult choices, while also considering its continuing importance in Iranian cultural life. A timely and rewarding introduction to a masterpiece of Persian literature.

DELIVERY MODE

Face to face

COURSE OUTLINE

• History of the text
• Plot summary and characters:
  • Mythological
  • Heroic
  • Historical
• Importance within Persian/Iranian society
• Themes and values
• Influence on later stories, and art

LEARNING OUTCOMES

• Outline the history of the text: author, historical context, translations, and adaptations
• Discuss the narrative of each section of the epic in relation to characters, events, themes, and values

COURSE RESOURCES

• The Shahnameh by Ferdowsi