The Shahnameh was completed in the year 1010 by the Persian poet Ferdowsi. A monumental undertaking encompassing ancient myths, legends, and history, it is one of Iran’s most cherished works of literature. This is a chronicle of kings and heroes, of battles and deeds, written in verse that is compelling, lyrical, and evocative. Ferdowsi sought to capture an ancient civilization through its myths and legends. He created a framework that is steeped in the inherent universal wisdom of humanity, exploring its continuum from one generation to another, from one dynasty to another.

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And 1,010 years later, in the year 2020, Josiane Cohanim completed Volume One of her translation of The Shahnameh in modern, non-rhyming verse with the express purpose of making it accessible to contemporary English-speaking readers unfamiliar with it. Today, all five volumes of the legendary epic poem are available.

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