Shahnameh Quest
Hosted by Arsalan Akhavan, Shahnameh Quest is a journey through the Persian Book of Kings, one story at a time. Featuring accessible retellings in English, with occasional commentary and bonus episodes.
Shahnameh Quest
Latest Episodes
Afrasiyab Begs for Peace
Arsalan retells the dramatic appeal Afrasiyab makes to his father, King Pashang of Turan, begging him to make peace with the Iranians and prevent Rostam’s unstoppable wrath.
Commentary: A Shocking Defeat
Arsalan reflects on the human impact of Rostam’s defeat of Afrasiyab and prepares listeners to experience its aftermath from the Turanian perspective.
Battle: Rostam vs. Afrasiyab
Arsalan retells the dramatic first clash between Rostam and Afrasiyab, and how the Iranian hero leads Iran to victory, sending the invading army into a crushing, humiliating retreat.
Kay Qobad Prepares Iran for Battle
Arsalan retells Kay Qobad’s mobilization of the Iranian army to confront the Turanian invaders, and how Rostam prepares for his first one-on-one combat with Prince Afrasiyab of Turan.
Commentary: Changing Dynasties
Arsalan marks the transition from the Pishdadian dynasty to the Kayanian dynasty, explaining what the title "Kay" means for the names of upcoming kings, and how this new era bridges the Shahnameh's Heroic Age with its eventual Historical Age.
