A Comparative Study of the Recurring Themes of the Loving Hero in the Shahnameh, Ramayana, and Mahabharata

Document Type : Scientific

Authors

1 Phd. Student of Persian Language and Literature of Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran

2 Prof. Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman

10.22103/jis.2025.26209.2802

Abstract

Purpose/Background: In epics, epic heroes with their own characteristics are the main focus of the poem. The repetition of the same characteristics in epics creates "themes". How they are born, raised, passing through different stages and most importantly, self-sacrifice and dedication to save the homeland or in other words, going beyond oneself and individuality to reach the whole and save a country, nation, religion and finally how to reach the stage of transcendence are among the most important themes of the epic hero.

Method/Approach: This article, which is organized in a descriptive-analytical method and with a citational approach; compares the recurring themes in the aforementioned epics based on the American comparative school and, considering the cultural commonalities of Iran and India, expresses the points of commonality and difference of the recurring themes of the heroes of the epics.

Findings/Results: Focusing on three central themes of “miraculous birth and growth,” “the process of falling in love and choosing a spouse,” and “the journey and passing tests,” the present study shows how these common patterns serve to reflect the worldview and distinctive cultural ideals of each civilization. The results indicate that the birth of the hero in these texts is a promise of salvation; his love is a test of duty and honor; and his journey is a path to the realization of “dharma” or “farrah.” Together, these three themes outline the evolutionary arc of the ideal hero in each culture.

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Journal of Iranian Studies
Volume 24, Issue 48 - Serial Number 48
December 2025
Pages 169-193

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