Article Published In Vol.5 (July-Aug-2017)

Historical outline of Regional multiplicity, evolution of Literature and its significance in Persian Manuscript Illustrations

Author : Samina Zia Sheikh

This study observes the role of Persian literature that developed and formed into a land of diversities and subsequent impact of literature on Persian manuscript illustrations. Persia, invaded and occupied by Greeks, Arabs, Turks, Mongols, and Scythians gave way to literature to flourish under numerous dynasties. Zoroastrian beliefs and traditions have always been present in Persian art and literature. Literature included old scriptures of Avesta, Bundahishn and Denkard and later developments in form of ‘Shanameh’ by Firdawsi, and ‘Mukhzanu ‘l Asrar’, ‘Khusraw u Shirin’, ‘Haft paykar’ ‘Masnawis’, and ‘Khumsa’ by Nizami, all are much valued contributions in Persian literature. Manntiq- al Tayr by Farid- aI Din ‘Attar, an allegorical masnawi describes impressive imagery, the adventure of the birds and Sa’di’s Bustan, Gulistan and Jami’s Baharistan are remarkable works that gave life to the creation of images for Persian manuscript illustrations. . Artistic productions of mythological themes and symbols are significantly works of artists and poets working under the patronage of different rulers from thirteenth till fifteenth century. Persian artists gave visual imagery to literature and poetry, to generate interest of the reader in literature; and to make them known with Persia’s historical past and diversity of the region. Melodious amalgamation of artistic and poetic language with a spiritual narrative expression caused the development of miniatures. Thus, these miniatures hold of a rich accordance with Persian history, religion and literature.

Keywords: Diversity, Persian Literature, Manuscript Illustrations, Myths, Beliefs and Traditions.