A Study of Nezami’s Haft Paykar and Its Counterparts in Dari Literature

Abstract

Nezami Ganjavi, one of the greatest romantic poets in Persian literature was born in 1141 in Ganja, modern – day Azerbaijan and lived at a time of intense intellectual activity. Since he was not a court poet, his name does not appear in the records of the dynasties. A prominent poet acquainted with Arabic and Persian literature, he was also learned in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, botany and the Quran. Nezami was one of the biggest Persian poets and the Haft Paykar perhaps his greatest work that translated twice before into English during the 20th century.
 In this article, with a brief reference to the Haft Paykar of Nezami, and its counterparts are introduced, which have been made by imitating, following and adapting from it. In addition to identifying the Haft Paykar idols, the stories of each idol will also be discussed and analyzed. The purpose, product and result of this research work is; the study of Nezami’s academic life and explanation of the Haft Paykar with its details, such as (Hasht Golgasht, Haft Akhtar, Haft Paykar, Haft Keshwar, Haft Delbar, Noh Manzar, Haft Aurang Maraghi, Haft Orang Jamali, Hasht Behesht, Haft Manzar, Haft Naghsh, Asmane Hashtom, Haft Akhtar, Reshtaye Gawhar), in the area of Persian language and literature; which has added to the richness of this scientific article. 
 Purpose of research: Brief introduction of Haft Paykar Nezami Ganjavi and description of its peers in the field of Dari – Persian language and literature, with their modal and examples in details.