January 2014 Dinner Meeting

Speaker: Amed Sadri

“Shahnameh: The Epic of the Persian Kings”

In the history of literature, Shahnameh stands with the giants of national epic such as the Illiad and Aeneid. Written by the 10th century Persian poet Ferdowsi, its 60,000 heroic verses constitute the world's longest poem. Dr. Sadri's sensitive, abridged translation was published in the spring of 2013, created for a 21st century audience.  The translation maintains the meaning and moral of the stories while making them accessible to modern readers.  Elaborate new illustrations convey scenes so vivid that you can almost hear the whistling arrows of the archers or feel the golden threads of the royal garments.  NPR has described this work as "not mere fairy tales but stories of character, passion and perseverance in sumptuous color and detail."  CNN called it "an epic for the digital age."  Books will be available for the signing. Dr. Sadri is the Gorter Professor of Islamic World Studies at Lake Forest College.

Please note this is the fourth Wednesday of the month.

Union League, 65 W. Jackson, Chicago. Timing: spirits at 5:00, dinner at 6:00, program at 7:30.