Shahrokh Meskoob Livres

Through a deep analysis of the Shahnameh, Meskoob explores its dual nature as both a historical account and a poetic masterpiece. He highlights the epic's rich tapestry of myths, romance, and political theory, tracing Iran's history from its legendary origins to the decline of the Sasanian dynasty. By shifting the focus from linguistic significance and nationalism to the cultural and philosophical implications of the text, Meskoob offers a fresh perspective on this cornerstone of Persian literature and identity.

In this insightful study of Iranian cultural history and national identity, the late Shahrokh Meskoob, one of Iran's leading intellectuals, reviewed the roles of three social classes, the courtiers and bureaucratic officials (ahl-e divan), the religious scholars (ulama), and the Muslim Gnostics (Sufi poets and writers), in the development and refinement of the Persian language during the past 1,000 years and gives the reader a fresh perspective on Iranian cultural heritage and the struggle to forge a distinct national identity. Dr. Ali Banuazizi's foreword and interview with the author sets the stage for a fuller appreciation of this invaluable and wide-ranging contribution to Iranian intellectual history.

Exploring themes of love, greed, and ethical integrity, this work delves into the eleventh-century Iranian epic, the Shahnameh. It intertwines various mythological and historical elements to narrate the poignant story of prince Siavash's death and his resurrection as Kay Khosrow. Meskoob critiques the decline of heroic ideals in Sasanian society and the shift towards a fatalistic martyrdom in Shi'ite Iran. The translation by Mahasti Afshar captures the essence of Meskoob's prose, enhanced by insightful notes for both general readers and scholars.

Shahrokh Meskoob was one of Iran's leading intellectuals and a preeminent scholar of Persian literary traditions, language, and cultural identity. In The Ant's Gift, Meskoob applies his insight and considerable analytical skills to the Shahnameh, the national epic of Iran completed in 1010 by the poet Abul-Qusem Ferdowsi.