Literary Text Research

Literary Text Research

Methods and Examples of Hamzehnameh's Modeling after Shahnameh

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors
1 Persian language and literature departmen, Payame noor University, Tehran, Iran.
2 Assistant professor of Persian Language and Literature,, Ahlul Bayt International University, Tehran, Iran
10.22054/ltr.2026.88894.4080
Abstract
Hamzehnameh is one of the most famous folk tales widely known among the people. This story revolves around Hamzeh, the Prophet Muhammad’s uncle, interwoven with numerous legends. Hamzehnameh bears traces of Iranian, Indian, and other regional narratives. Among these, it has been most profoundly influenced by the stories of Ferdowsi’s *Shahnameh* (Book of Kings). There are various narratives of Hamzehnameh, each emphasizing different aspects of Hamzeh’s adventures, whether focusing on chivalric or heroic themes. One such narrative, which highlights the heroic dimension, is *Hamzehnameh (The Tale of Amir al-Mu’menin and Hamza)*, edited by Ja’far Sho’ar. This article scrutinizes the stories of Hamzehnameh through the view of its modeling after *Shahnameh*, including the incorporation of *Shahnameh* verses, parallels in character behaviors, and similarities in narrative plots. The study concludes that in this narrative of Hamzehnameh, the stories of *Shahnameh* served as the primary template for the author, who sought to create parodies of many *Shahnameh* narratives within Hamzehnameh. These parodies aim to elevate the character of Hamzeh and his companions, often exaggerating his triumphs to assert his superiority over the heroes of *Shahnameh*. The author’s goal is to prove Hamzeh’s dominance over Shahnameh’s champions by giving precedence to his victories.
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