Document Type : Original Article

Authors

• Saba Habib zadeh nesami ¹
• Farzad Baloo ²
• siavash haghjou ³

¹ Faculty of Persian Literature and Foreign Languages, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

² Associate Professor, Department of Persian Language and Literature, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

³ Associate Prof., Department of Persian Language and Literature, Faculty ofPersian Literature and Foreign Languages, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran

Abstract

Iblis has been reflected in various ways in Persian classical literature, both poetry and prose. Some have approached this story negatively, aligning with the apparent Qur’anic teachings. Conversely, others have taken a positive perspective, viewing Iblis as a tragic hero defeated by fate an approach contrary to the Qur’an and the norms of classical society, influenced by Ash‘arite thought. Meanwhile, a group avoided taking a clear stance on Iblis. Attar is often placed in this latter category. However, this research argues that Attar, much like Hallaj and Ayn al-Qudat, predominantly defends Iblis in his poetry. Even in those verses that seem to align with a conventional Qur’anic understanding, traces of sympathy toward Iblis are evident, with Attar merely recounting the narrative.
In Attar’s poetic works, a portrayal of Iblis emerges that can be analyzed within the framework of Aristotelian tragedy. Using a descriptive-analytical approach, this study explores the core elements of tragedy and how they manifest in Iblis’s character and story. Through his works, Attar narrates events where Iblis, as a complex figure, plays a pivotal role. By his actions and choices, he creates circumstances that ultimately present him as a tragic hero, evoking empathy and sympathy in the audience, and resulting in spiritual catharsis and purification for the reader.

Keywords

• Tragedy
• Aristotle
• Attar
• Iblis
• Hero

Main Subjects

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