The Persian Literature, Comprising The Shah Nameh, The Rubaiyat, The Divan, and The Gulistan, Volume 1   By: Various

The Persian Literature, Comprising The Shah Nameh, The Rubaiyat, The Divan, and The Gulistan, Volume 1, is a remarkable anthology that dives deep into the vibrant world of Persian literature. With contributions from various literary masters, this collection offers readers an immersive journey into the heart and soul of Persian culture.

The centerpiece of this volume is undeniably "The Shah Nameh," an epic poem penned by the legendary Persian poet Ferdowsi. Spanning more than fifty thousand rhyming couplets, this masterpiece recounts the rich history and mythology of Iran. Ferdowsi's storytelling prowess shines through as he skillfully weaves together tales of heroic warriors, valiant kings, and supernatural creatures. The epic powerfully showcases the enduring spirit of Persian legend and heritage.

Accompanying "The Shah Nameh" are three other significant works that further illustrate the depth and diversity of Persian literature. "The Rubaiyat" by the influential poet Omar Khayyam captivates readers with its mesmerizing verses, exploring themes of love, existentialism, and the transience of life. The quatrains in this collection are a true testament to Khayyam's profound philosophical musings and lyrical finesse.

Next in line is "The Divan" by acclaimed poet Hafez. This poetic treasure trove showcases Hafez's mastery of the ghazal form, a lyrical verse with intricate rhyme and rhythm. Delving into themes of love, spirituality, and the human condition, Hafez's verses leave a lasting impact on the reader's soul. With his profound insights and graceful expressions, Hafez cements his position as one of the greatest Persian poets of all time.

Finally, "The Gulistan" by renowned poet and philosopher Saadi brings a touch of moral wisdom and reflective teachings to this already diverse compilation. Through captivating anecdotes and inspiring stories, Saadi imparts timeless life lessons and ethical principles. His thought-provoking narratives serve as a guide to human behavior, emphasizing compassion, humility, and the pursuit of knowledge.

One of the strengths of this anthology lies in its meticulous translation. The translators have done an incredible job preserving the essence of the original texts, capturing the beauty, flow, and depth of the Persian language. Their efforts allow readers, regardless of their familiarity with Persian, to fully immerse themselves in the richness of these literary treasures.

"The Persian Literature, Comprising The Shah Nameh, The Rubaiyat, The Divan, and The Gulistan, Volume 1" is a true gem for both lovers of Persian culture and literature enthusiasts. Through its meticulous selection of works and extraordinary translation, this anthology deeply resonates with readers, offering a glimpse into the profound wisdom, dazzling imagery, and timeless truths found within Persian literature. By delving into the pages of this volume, readers will surely come to appreciate the lasting influence and enduring power of Persian literary giants.

First Page:

A certain amount of romantic interest has always attached to Persia. With a continuous history stretching back into those dawn days of history in which fancy loves to play, the mention of its name brings to our minds the vision of things beautiful and artistic, the memory of great deeds and days of chivalry. We seem almost to smell the fragrance of the rose gardens of Tus and of Shiraz, and to hear the knight errants tell of war and of love. There are other Oriental civilizations, whose coming and going have not been in vain for the world; they have done their little bit of apportioned work in the universe, and have done it well. India and Arabia have had their great poets and their great heroes, yet they have remained well nigh unknown to the men and women of our latter day, even to those whose world is that of letters. But the names of Firdusi, Sa'di, Omar Khayyám, Jami, and Háfiz, have a place in our own temples of fame. They have won their way into the book stalls and stand upon our shelves, side by side with the other books which mould our life and shape our character... Continue reading book >>