UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM

Main Campus Tanay, Rizal

“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION
UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Intended Learning Outcomes:

At the end of the lesson, the students with 80-90% mastery and accuracy shall be able to;

a. Review the different facts about the history of Persia and its Literature through small group
discussion.
b. Identify the prominent poets and authors in Persian Literature using matching type test.
c. Categorize the different Persian literary works in accordance to its author through group activity.

PERSIAN LITERATURE

The term "Persian" has linguistic roots in Latin, originating from "Persia," which can be traced back
to the Greek term "Persis." This linguistic journey underscores the rich historical background of Persian
literature, a unique amalgamation of oral and written expressions in the Persian language. With a
remarkable history spanning over two-and-a-half millennia, Persian literature serves as one of the world's
oldest literary traditions, illustrating the enduring cultural impact of Persian-speaking regions. Despite its
profound heritage, Persian Literature remained relatively unnoticed in the Western world until the
nineteenth century. The turning point came with the publication of translations from the works of late
medieval Persian poets, a development that propelled Persian literature into the spotlight, fostering
widespread recognition and appreciation beyond its original cultural milieu.

The recognition of Persian literature in the Western world was a transformative process that
unfolded through the dissemination of translated works from late medieval Persian poets. Prior to the
nineteenth century, the rich tapestry of Persian literary contributions was largely overlooked outside its
native context. However, the translation of these poetic masterpieces acted as a gateway, enabling
Western audiences to delve into the intricate beauty and cultural nuances embedded in Persian literature.
This newfound accessibility marked a significant shift, allowing Persian literature to transcend its historical
obscurity and gain the attention and acclaim it rightly deserved on the global stage.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

SHORT HISTORY OF PERSIA AND PERSIAN LITERATURE

Persia and Mesopotamia existed side by side during a crucial epoch in ancient history, sharing a
timeline that witnessed the flourishing of rich cultural and literary traditions. Among the earliest literary
treasures of Persia are the "Gathas," composed in the Old Avestan language and serving as a repository
not only for myths but also for the teachings of Prophet Zoroaster. However, the golden age of Persian
literature faced a tumultuous disruption with the conquest of Alexander the Great, who, through Hellenism,
left an enduring impact on Persia. This period marked a significant setback for Persian identity, as
teachings, literature, and even the Persian language itself experienced a prolonged period of disuse,
resulting in the erosion of a substantial portion of their literary heritage.

The conquest of Alexander the Great led to a notable decline in the prominence of Persian
literature, with the Old Persian language, exemplified in the Achaemenian kings’ inscriptions in cuneiform
writing from the 6th to the 4th century BCE, standing as one of the last remnants of Persia’s linguistic legacy.
These inscriptions, primarily containing formal royal edicts, also feature elements of the Shah-nameh
literature. Despite their formal style, these texts made a minimal contribution to the overall literary
development in Iran, underscoring the intricate interplay between historical events, linguistic evolution, and
the preservation of cultural identity within the intricate tapestry of Persia’s literary heritage.

Presently, the contemporary nation known as Iran stands atop the foundation of a historical and
political legacy that spans an impressive 3000 years. The roots of this tradition delve deep into the annals
of time, dating back to periods when the very concept and comprehension of history were in their infancy.
Throughout the ages, the geographic expanse that is now recognized as Iran has been home to numerous
civilizations, each leaving its distinct imprint on the cultural and political landscape. Over the millennia,
diverse states have risen and fallen, shaping the narrative of this region in dynamic ways.

The continuous flow of civilizations and states has contributed to the intricate tapestry of Iran's history. The
nation's contemporary identity is thus a culmination of this rich historical and political accumulation, a
testament to the endurance and resilience of the people and cultures that have inhabited this land over the
centuries. The statement underscores the depth and complexity of Iran's historical trajectory, highlighting
the multitude of civilizations and states that have played a role in shaping its contemporary existence.

DID YOU
KNOW?
Throughout history, influential figures globally have appointed renowned eunuchs to
positions of authority. Eunuchs, often defined by castration (though some historical
texts mention celibacy or infertility), were perceived as being less than men, yet
some viewed them as another sex or a third gender. In Ancient Persia, societal
categorization extended beyond a simple binary, recognizing men, women, and
eunuchs as distinct entities.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

CHARACTERISTICS OF PERSIAN LITERATURE

Persian Literature predominantly directs its attention towards a diverse array of subjects, with a
notable emphasis on writings pertaining to the kinship system, utilitarian goals, and religious matters, as
well as the intricate affairs of government. This literary tradition intricately weaves together narratives that
delve into the complexities of familial relationships, offering insights into the cultural and social fabric.
Moreover, Persian Literature extends its reach beyond the personal sphere, engaging with practical and
utilitarian themes, addressing the needs and challenges of everyday life. Additionally, it plays a pivotal role
in exploring and expressing the religious dimensions of Persian culture, providing a profound reflection on
spiritual beliefs and practices. Furthermore, the literature actively engages with the intricacies of
governance, offering perspectives on political structures, leadership, and the broader dynamics of societal
organization. In essence, Persian Literature serves as a multifaceted lens through which the richness and
diversity of Persian culture, encompassing familial, utilitarian, religious, and governmental aspects, are
vividly portrayed and explored.

PERSIAN PROSE

Flourishing prominently in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, this phenomenon has been
harnessed for utilitarian purposes, finding significant application in the realms of scholarship, religion, and
governmental affairs. Beyond its functional roles, it serves as a repository of invaluable narratives,
contributing to the rich tapestry of human experiences and knowledge. As a multifaceted force, it not only
serves practical functions in various domains but also encapsulates a treasure trove of stories and insights
that enhance our understanding of the world and its intricate workings.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

PROMINENT AUTHORS OF PERSIAN LITERATURE AND THEIR NOTABLE WORKS

Omar Khayyam (1048-1122)

Persian poet, philosopher, astronomer and mathematician.

Translator: Edward Fitzgerald (1809-1883) A prominent

English poet of the Victorian age. He made five editions of
Omar Khayyam’s Rubaiyat which were first published in 1859.

Notable Work: Rubaiyyat

Rubaiyyat by Omar Khayyam

• The poet is obsessed in finding his creator.
• Hedonism is demonstrated in his poetry which was daring for his time.

What is the meaning of Rubaiyyat

The Rubáiyát is a Persian form of several quatrains. Its name derives from the Arabic plural of
the word for "quatrain," Rubá'íyah. This, in turn, comes from the Arabic Rubá, meaning "four."
It deals with the ultimate questions of life and death while imparting an Epicurean style
philosophy of not taking things too seriously. It questions our deeply held beliefs about God and
heaven while focusing on the kind of spiritual transcendence usually found in Sufi literature.
Within the fervent verses penned by Omar, metaphors emerge as vibrant threads weaving
together the tapestry of his poetic expressions, particularly in the passionate homage to wine and
love. These symbolic elements transcend their literal meanings, becoming conduits through which,
the poet communicates deeper, esoteric layers of thought rooted in Sufism. In Omar's poetic realm,
wine is not merely the fermented nectar of the grape but a metaphorical elixir representing the joy
and ecstasy of the spirit. It becomes a vessel for transcendent experiences, symbolizing the
intoxicating bliss that arises from a profound connection with the divine.

Feature of this poem:

 Human ups and downs
 Failure
 Success
 Life
 Death.

Terms:
 Hedonism-> Excessive pleasure
 Cessation-> Termination
 Ethics morality-> Mora philosophy.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Omar Khayyam has presented the nectar of divine ecstasy as a delightful alternative that
leads to human enlightenment and eradicates human woe permanently. He has pictured the
ordinary joys of life for the worldly men are able to compare the mundane pleasures with the
superior joys of spiritual life. The literal meaning of the translated verses is completely absurd but
the vast inner meanings are like a golden treasure house.

The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam is a poem of high divine and spiritual meaning. The beauty and
simplicity of this poem is so immaculate that people of all faiths and those who have no faith at all
can seek divine solace in it.

Omar has used metaphors in his passionate praise of wine and love. They are mere symbols of
Sufism where wine is the joy of spirit and the love is immense devotion to God

Some stanzas of the poem translated by Edward Fitzgerald:

1

Wake! For the Sun, who scattered into
flight
The Stars before him from the Field of
Night,
Drives Night along with them from Heav’n
and strikes
The Sultán’s Turret with a Shaft of Light.
2 Ah, take the Cash, and let the Credit go,
Before the phantom of False morning
died,
Methought a Voice within the Tavern cried,
“When all the Temple is prepared within,
Why nods the drowsy Worshiper outside?”
A Book of Verses underneath the Bough,
A Jug of Wine, a Loaf of Bread—and Thou
Beside me singing in the Wilderness
Oh, Wilderness were Paradise enow!
5
Some for the Glories of This World; and
some
Sigh for the Prophet’s Paradise to come;
Nor heed the rumble of a distant Drum!
6
Look to the blowing Rose about us— “Lo,
Laughing,” she says, “into the world I
blow,

3 At once the silken tassel of my Purse

And, as the Cock crew, those who stood Tear, and its Treasure on the Garden
before throw.”
The Tavern shouted— “Open, then, the 7
Door! And those who husbanded the Golden
You know how little while we have to stay, Grain,
And, once departed, may return no more.” And those who flung it to the winds like
4 Rain,
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Alike to no such aureate Earth are turned That every Hyacinth the Garden wears
As, buried once, Men want dug up again. Dropped in her Lap from some once lovely
8 Head.
I sometimes think that never blows so red
The Rose as where some buried Caesar
bled;

Summary
In the enchanting tapestry of poetic expression, the verses unfurl against the canvas of
dawn, a symbolic threshold that signifies the onset of the traditional Persian New Year. The vernal
equinox, bathed in the gentle glow of the rising sun, serves as the evocative backdrop for the
unfolding narrative. As the sun disperses the remnants of the night, the poet's words come alive,
resonating with an impassioned call for his companion to awaken and partake in the symphony of
the emerging day. This opening scene establishes a poignant connection between the natural world
and the human experience, setting the stage for a poetic journey infused with the vibrancy of new
beginnings.
As the poem unfolds, the identity of the poet's companion gradually crystallizes, taking on
the dual mantle of "Thou" and the tender appellation of "Love." This subtle revelation unveils the
romantic undercurrent that courses through the verses, adding a layer of intimacy and emotional
depth to the unfolding narrative. The use of endearing terms not only establishes a personal
connection between the poet and his beloved but also hints at a profound and reciprocal bond. The
romantic essence of their relationship becomes a focal point, intertwining seamlessly with the
broader themes of nature's rejuvenation and the beckoning of a fresh start.
Woven into the fabric of the poem are themes that resonate with universality—nature's
cyclical renewal, the transformative power of love, and the perpetual allure of new beginnings. The
poet's invitation to his beloved becomes a metaphor for embracing the beauty and promise inherent
in the awakening day. Through skillful interplay of language and imagery, the verses encapsulate
the essence of the vernal equinox, capturing the spirit of renewal and the inexorable pull towards the
possibilities that lie ahead. The poem, thus, becomes a lyrical celebration of love, nature, and the
perennial allure of embarking on a new journey as the sun ascends, casting its golden glow upon
the canvas of existence.

Hafez (1320-1389)
A badass poet from the 14th c.
He was born in 1320 in Shiraz, Persia.
He died in 1389.
He is estimated to have written 5,000 poems.
Out of those 5,000 about 500 to 700 poems are all that have
survived.
His parents gave him the name Shams-ud-din Muhammad, he
gave himself the name Hafiz.
Don’t call him Shams-ud-din Muhammad. He is a Persian poet.

All About Hafiz

 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

 He believed in God but he wasn’t really interested in organized religion. (see his poem “Stop
Being So Religious”) He was always asking the real questions like:
 “Who Will Feed My Cat?” and “Why Aren’t We Screaming Drunks?” He said the things we
were all thinking:
 “Something ain’t right about this Camel ride” (from his poem “Damn Thirsty”)
 But mostly Hafiz was all about love, (in all its forms) understanding and knowledge

WHAT IS HAFEZ POETRY ALL ABOUT?

The renowned Persian lyric poet Hafiz, also known as Khwāja Šamsu d-Dīn
Muḥammad Hāfez-e Šīrāzī, spent his formative years in Shiraz. While details about
his life remain scarce, it is believed that he may have memorized the Qur’an under the influence of
his father, who recited passages from the holy book. Following his father's death, Hafiz, having left
school, engaged in work at a bakery and as a copyist. Eventually, he emerged as a poet at the court
of Abu Ishak and also took on a role as a teacher at a religious college. Hafiz holds a distinguished
place among Persian poets, leaving an enduring impact that resonates to this day.

His poetic legacy is characterized by numerous ghazals that eloquently express themes of
love, spirituality, and protest. Hafiz's influence continues to be deeply ingrained in Iranian culture,
with his poems often cited as proverbs or sayings. Even though the details of his life are somewhat
elusive, the significance of Hafiz's literary contributions remains undiminished, and his work serves
as a timeless source of inspiration and reflection for Iranians. Today, Hafiz's tomb stands in Musalla
Gardens in Shiraz, a physical tribute to the lasting legacy of this celebrated Persian poet.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Jāmī (1414-1492)
Persian poet and scholar
(Born Nov. 7, 1414, district of Jam—died Nov. 9,
1492, Herāt, Timurid Afghanistan)

He was a Persian scholar, mystic, and poet who

is often regarded as the last great mystical poet
of Iran.

Notable works: Haft Awrang, Tuhfat al-Ahrar,

Layla wa Majnun, Fatihat al-Shabab, Lawa'ih, Al-
Durrah al-Fakhirah

Saadi Shīrāzī (1210-1291/1292)

Persian poet and prose writer

(Born 1210; died 1291 or 1292)

He was a Persian poet and prose writer of the
medieval period. He is recognized for the quality of his
writings and for the depth of
his social and moral thoughts.

Notable works: Sa'di's best known works

are Bustan (The Orchard) completed in 1257 and
Gulistan (The Rose Garden) completed in 1258. Bustan is entirely in verse (epic meter).

Writing Style: Saadi's writing style is called Saj' in Persian and Arabic, and it is a kind of prose
characterized by rhythm as well as rhyme. This artistic style of writing reaches its peak in Saadi's
Golestan. His prose style is described as simple but impossible to imitate.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Ghazal

The ghazal, a poetic form with its roots in Arabic literature, stands as an amatory poem or
ode that transcends cultural boundaries. Originating in the rich tradition of Arabic poetry, ghazals are
characterized by their exploration of themes related to spiritual and romantic love. These
compositions provide a nuanced and intricate poetic expression, capturing the essence of both the
poignant anguish experienced in moments of separation from a beloved and the enduring beauty
that love holds, even in the face of such pain. The ghazal, as a literary genre, weaves together
emotions and sentiments, creating a lyrical tapestry that resonates with readers across time and
cultures, emphasizing the complex interplay between love's challenges and its profound, enduring
allure.

With its origins deeply embedded in Arabic poetry, the ghazal has evolved into a versatile and
cherished form of expression embraced by poets across various linguistic traditions. Its universal
themes of love, loss, and the transformative power of affection render the ghazal a poetic vessel
that transcends cultural boundaries, continuing to captivate audiences and evoke profound
emotions.

References:

https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jami
https://artsandculture.google.com/entity/saadi-shirazi/m025xvp9?hl=en
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/learn/glossary-terms/ghazal#:~:text=(Pronounciation%3A
%20%E2%80%9Cguzzle%E2%80%9D),has%20an%20intricate%20rhyme%20scheme.
https://www.britannica.com/art/Persian-literature
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Assessment
Test I. Multiple Choice Question

Direction: Read and encircle the best answer on the following questions.

1. The latin word "Persia" is derived from the Greek word ________.

a. Persis b. Perses

c. Presia d. Prose

2. What does "Iran" mean?

a. Land of the Aryans b. Land of the Persians

c. Land of Rising Sun d. Land of Asia

3. He made five editions of Omar Khayyam's Rubiayat.

a. Edward Cullen b. David Fitgerald

c. Hafiz d. Edward Fitgerald

4. What is the meaning of the arabic word "Ruba"?

a. Four b. Day c. Truth d. God

5. His parents gave him the name "Shams-ud-din Muhammad.

a. Muhammad b. Jami c. Hafiz d. Safix

6. On what day did they celebrate Hafiz day?

a. February 11 b. November 10 c. January 13 d. October 12

7. He is Regarded as the last great mythical poet of Iran

a. Jami b. Hafiz c. Khayyam d . Sa'adi

8. What is Sa'di's best works?

a. Bustan (The Orchard) and Guslista ( The Rose Garden)

b. Buston (The Day) and Gustelista (The Rose Garden)

c. Bustan (The Orchid) and Gustalista (The Flower Garden)

d. Bustan (the Rose Garden) and Gustalista ( The Orchard)

9. What is called to Sa'di's writing style?

a. Sa'adi b. Rubiayat c. Jami d. Saj

10. It is a form of Amatory poem or Ode, originating in Arabic poetry.

a. Saj b. Iraq c. Rubiayat d. Ghazals

 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Test II. True or False

Direction: Read each statement carefully identify if the statements are correct write True if they are correct
and False if they are not. Write your answers on the space provided after the item.

1. Persia was the former name of Iran. _____

2. Persian literature includes the works of poets such as Saadi, Hafez, and Omar Khayyam. _____
3. The majority of Persian literature is written in Arabic. _____
4. Persian literature has heavily influenced mystical poetry and Sufi philosophy. _____
5. Saadi, another prominent Persian poet, authored "Gulistan" and "Bustan." _____
6. Persian literature lacks impact or influence outside of its borders and culture. _____
7. The majority of Persian literature is prose, with minimal emphasis on poetry. _____
8. The ghazal is a form of amatory poem or ode, originating in Arabic poetry. _____
9. Hafez is known for his collection of poems called "Divan-e Hafez." _____
10. Persian literature span two-and-a-half millennia. _____

Test III. Matching Type

Directions: Match column A with the correct answer on column B, write only the letter of answer on the
blank provided at the right side of the column A.

Column A Column B

______ 1. This was one of earliest literature that A. Human Ups and Downs
uses Avestan Language.
B. Gazhals
______ 2. This is the Greek term for Persia.
C. Gathas
______ 3. Because of his conquest he influenced
D. Omar Khayyam
the Persian Literature with other belief.
E. Persi
______ 4. He is the author of Rubaiyyat.
F. (Jāmī)
______ 5. This is the one of the common features
of the poem Rubaiyyat. G. Hafez
______ 6. He is a persian poet who do not
believe in God or organized religion.
H. Alexander the Great
______ 7. He is the author of Haft Awrang.

______ 8. This is the writing style of Saadi.

I. Sai
______ 9. Its origin is deeply embedded with
Arabic Poetry.

______10. These two genres were prominent in J. Prose and Poetry

twentieth and twenty first centuries.
 UNIVERSITY OF RIZAL SYSTEM
Main Campus Tanay, Rizal
“Nurturing Tomorrow’s Noblest”
COLLEGE OF SCIENCE AND EDUCATION

Persian Literature: Key to Correction

Test I.

1. A
2. A
3. D
4. A
5. C
6. D
7. A
8. D
9. D
10. D

Test II.

1. True
2. True
3. False
4. True
5. True
6. False
7. False
8. True
9. True
10. True

Test III.

1. C
2. E
3. H
4. D
5. A
6. G
7. F
8. I
9. B
10. J