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The Transformation of the Narratives of Bahram Chubin: Reflections of Diverse Perspectives in Ancient Sources and the Shahnameh

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PHD candidate in Persian Language and Literature, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran

2 Prof of Persian Language and Literature, Shiraz University. Shiraz, Iran

Abstract

 
Bahram Chubin, who in 588 CE served as commander of the Iranian army, defeated the Hephthalites and overcame the Turkic Khagan. Yet Hormizd IV, who had distrusted him from the outset, dismissed him on a pretext. This event paved the way for Bahram’s rebellion.
The story of Bahram Chubin became intertwined with legend and assumed a contradictory character in historical sources. A survey of Arabic, Persian, and Byzantine accounts reveals four principal perspectives: first, popular narratives and epic legends supporting Bahram; second, the view of the magi and military elites aligned with him; third, the perspective of the magi and military factions loyal to Khosrow; and fourth, accounts shaped by popular traditions favoring Khosrow.This study identifies the various narratives about Bahram Chubin and examines their written or oral origins. It seeks to demonstrate how these accounts were formed and how they differ from one another. By analyzing their reflection in historical and literary texts—especially the Shahnameh—it further explores which tradition Ferdowsi favored and how his version relates to official sources and to oral narratives.
 

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Journal of Poetry Studies (boostan Adab)
Volume 18, Issue 2 - Serial Number 68
September 2026
Pages 1-18
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