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Author
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Comment
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blisslessly
Registered User
(1/10/04 2:00 pm)
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shahnameh, from oral to illustrated manuscript
As my subject heading shows, I'm interested in discussing and learning
about the tradition of Persian/Islamic/Arabic story-telling, especially
their tales of kings and heros. Where do they originate, who sponsored
their transformation into written mode, how have they morphed throughout
the ages? Maybe this topic has been discussed before, in which case
i'd appreciate a link, or maybe its a first timer, in which case,
its about time!!!
My take on it is that the ancient Persian empire was so legendary, images of its kings and tales of their heroism were used as tools to propogate legitimacy of authority. So even when the Muslims conquered the Sasaians, they were well-versed in the history of Persian kings and were eager to implement Persian arts and heroic symbolism into the Islamic repertoire (for example, the winged crowns of Persian royalty, hunting scenes...etc)
Another important point in the development of Islamic/Persian/Arabic shahnameh texts is the Mongol invasion, although massively destructive, was a great rejuvenating force for the arts. Some of the most beautiful miniatures are from these period, such as the Demotte Shahnameh from 14th century Tabriz. Then there's the Safavids, whose patronage produced even more beautiful and refined Shahnameh!
Also, any comments on the importance of furthering heroic fairytales from an imperial perspective would be quite enlightening! A mixture of propaganda, entertainments, and aesthetic appreciation, maybe also ethically educational, came into play.
I hope this post isn't too obscure. THank you for your help.
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blisslessly
Registered User
(1/18/04 5:35 pm)
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wishful thinking
Hmmm, looks like nobody's interested in my quest for Mesopotapian lore... not even a passing word on our heros Rustam or Isfandiyar? How about lovers Khusrau and Shirin? Or Majnun and Leila? Anyone??? Please??
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Laura
McCaffrey
Registered User
(1/18/04 6:10 pm)
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Re: wishful thinking
Not a specialty of mine, and not frequently discussed here. Doesn't mean that it can't be, though.
Would love a link to the Majnun and Leila tale, though, if there's an English version online. Do know of one?
LauraMc
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blisslessly
Registered User
(1/20/04 5:14 pm)
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Re: wishful thinking
Thanks Laura for the reply!! Unfortunately I don't think the internet is very resourceful when it comes to Islamic literature, probably a language-related issue, but I'll try to find something in ENglish!
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...give me wings.........
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jess63
Registered User
(1/22/04 9:47 am)
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Re: wishful thinking
Don't take a "no reply" as a lack of interest, but as a lack of knowledge. Since you have found something I know nothing about, and you obviously know something of it, I can be of no help. On the other hand, it sounds fascinating. You have found a niche for yourself. Keep us posted on what you discover!
Jess
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