Day 1 - The Beginnings of Persian literature 1: Rudaki

In this and the next session we are going to learn about the beginnings of the Persian literature. Persian literary tradition goes back to the 9th-10th centuries, when the foundation of the Persian poetry was laid in the courts of local princes in Eastern Iran. Rudaki occupies an especially prominent place among the early poets. The testimonial of his fame may be found in the comparatively rich literary heritage that has been preserved by successive generations.

  1. Curriculum
  2. Intermediate Persian Syllabus
  3. Week 4 - Persian Literature
  4. Day 1 - The Beginnings of Persian literature 1: Rudaki  

Reading: Rudaki, “The cheerful spring came” (آمد بهار خرم), “Ju-ye Mulyan’s scent” (بوی جوی مولیان)

Listening: In this short video lecture, Rashid Kakavand, a scholar, lecturer and expert on Persian literature and poetry, discusses the life and the works of Rudaki, widely regarded as  the “Father of Persian poetry”.

Subject of Conversation: The origins of the Persian literature (آغاز ادبیات فارسی)

Each student will be given the opportunity to present her/his ideas on the origins of the Persian literature. The students will be encouraged to discuss their personal views as to which circumstances created the ground for the rise of the Persian literature. Original ideas as well as the correct and abundant use of the Persian words and expressions will be taken into account while assessing the success of each student.

Homework:
- Do the reading assignment at home and prepare the vocabulary.
- Please watch the video lecture  and try to answer the following questions: a. What role did Rudaki play in the formation of Persian poetry? b. What is the story behind Rudaki composing the qasideh “Bu-ye ju-ye Mulyan”? 
- Prepare for the next day’s discussion.