Persian Pages

The book presents a scholarly analysis of the Persian epic Shahnameh (Book of Kings), written by the poet Ferdowsi, exploring the relationship between the epic's narrative and historical events, with a particular focus on the ancient Iranian civilisation of Elam. The text explores a range of topics, including the origins of writing, the cultural significance of the Ziggurat (a type of ancient Mesopotamian temple), the historical context of the Shahnameh in ancient Iranian history, and the influence of ancient Persian mythology on the epic’s narrative structure.

Diary of Taj al-Saltaneh, the daughter of the Persian monarch Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. This diary offers a personal account of her life, including her marriage, her relationship with her husband, and her experiences within the royal court and wider Iranian society during the late 19th century. The text provides insights into the daily lives of those within the Shah's inner circle, the complexities of courtly life, and broader issues such as the role of women in Iranian society and the political climate of the time.

"From Historical Mosaddegh to Mythical Mosaddegh: With a Look at Less-Seen Works and Documents" examines the life and legacy of Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh. The book primarily focuses on the 1953 Iranian coup d'état, exploring the role of the CIA and British intelligence in Mosaddegh’s overthrow. It investigates how the events of 1953 shaped Iran's political culture, particularly the rise of anti-American sentiment and the use of propaganda to influence public opinion. The author, Ali Asghar Seyyedabadi, also examines the cultural impact of Mosaddegh, analysing how he became a symbol of resistance against foreign influence and a figure of national pride.

The book's central theme appears to be the history and cultural identity of the Iranian people, as it examines the history of the nation and its cultural landscape. It explores the influence of the surrounding region on Iranian identity and delves into the significance of the country's natural environment and the impact of history on its cultural development. The book also examines the concepts of landscape and its relation to culture, with a specific focus on the cultural landscape of Iran.

The book presents a vision for a future in Iran characterized by decentralized governance, citizen participation, and respect for its multifaceted cultural identity. While rooted in Iran's specific context, the ideas resonate with broader global discussions about democracy, governance, and the need for more inclusive and participatory systems.

"Old Tehran: A Memoir" by Abbas Manzarpour provides a detailed account of the author's experiences growing up in Tehran during the 1930s and 1940s. It offers a rich tapestry of life in Old Tehran, capturing its vibrant culture, social dynamics, and historical events. The author vividly recounts his childhood memories, encounters with diverse individuals, and observations of the changing social landscape. The excerpts reveal Manzarpour's keen eye for detail and ability to weave a captivating narrative.

"The Assassination of Ahmad Shah Massoud," a work by Mohammad Fahim-Dashti. It details the events leading up to the assassination of the Afghan military leader Ahmad Shah Massoud, including a description of Massoud's final days and his meetings with foreign journalists. Dashti, who was present at the time of Massoud's assassination, provides a firsthand account of the event, as well as his thoughts on the life and legacy of the military commander. The excerpt also includes excerpts from interviews with others present that day, including Massoud's aides and witnesses. Ultimately, the text reveals a tale of the life and death of a revered leader and offers insights into the political climate of Afghanistan in the months leading up to 9/11.

by Dr Fauvrier

By Fereydun Vahman

By Abolhassan Ebtehaj

by Mohammad Reza Pahlavi

By: Gūʼil Kuhan

By Abbas Amanat & Fereydun Vahman