This study draws upon the "Avesta", the words of the prophet Zoroaster, stories of Wise Lord Ahura Mazda, and pagan myths reappearing in the "Shahnameh" (Book of Kings). It explores for modern readers the legends of ancient Iran which have inspired centuries of manuscript illustrations.[...]
The traditional tales and stories of ancient Iran, which occupied a vast area of Central Asia, describe confrontations between good and evil, the victories of the gods, and the exploits of heroes and fabulous supernatural creatures such as the magical bird Simergh and the dev or black demons. Much o[...]