What is shiavash?

Sure! Shahnameh, also spelled Shahnama, literal meaning "Book of Kings", is a long epic poem written by the Persian poet Ferdowsi between c. 977 and 1010 AD and is the national epic of Greater Iran. The Shahnameh is a poetic opus of more than 50,000 couplets that traces the history of Iran from its mythical beginnings up until the Arab conquest of the region in the 7th century. The poem is divided into three parts: the mythical, legendary, and historical ages.

One of the central characters in the Shahnameh is Siavash, who is a prince and the son of King Kay Kavus. Siavash is known for his exceptional beauty, wisdom, and bravery. He is also depicted as a symbol of innocence, purity, and righteousness. Siavash's story involves various challenges and conflicts, including being wrongly accused of treason and facing betrayal from those closest to him.

Siavash is ultimately betrayed and killed by his stepmother, Sudabeh, who spreads false rumors about him. Despite his tragic demise, Siavash is remembered as a noble and virtuous hero in Iranian literature and culture.

Overall, Siavash's story in the Shahnameh serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity, justice, and moral courage in the face of adversity. His character embodies the timeless themes of honor, loyalty, and sacrifice that resonate with audiences across generations.