Iskandar-nāmeh

work by Neẓāmī

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July 19, 2026

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The Iskandar-nāmeh is the final poem in the Khamseh ("The Quintuplet"), a collection of five romantic epics by the Persian poet Nezāmi of Ganja. Written around the late 12th century, it is a philosophical exploration of the life and adventures of Alexander the Great. The poem draws from the rich tradition of the Alexander romance, a body of legends that evolved over centuries, blending historical accounts with mythical elements. Nezāmi's work is known for its refined language and insightful portrayal of human nature, contributing significantly to Persian literature and inspiring countless subsequent poets and artists.

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Persian literature
The proliferation of court patronage
The last poem is the Iskandar-nāmeh (“Book of Alexander the Great”), which consists of two parts: the first deals with Alexander’s military campaigns, and the second contains his conversations with the sages and philosophers assembled at his court. Neẓāmī’s poem is based on Ferdowsī’s treatment of the same story, but…
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The last poem is the Iskandar-nāmeh (“Book of Alexander the Great”), which consists of two parts: the first deals with Alexander’s military campaigns, and the second contains his conversations with the sages and philosophers assembled at his court. Neẓāmī’s poem is based on Ferdowsī’s treatment of the same story, but…
Read More