Character · The Shahnameh · Volume III

Golnarگلنار

gol-NAHR

Ardavan's favorite slave, keeper of his treasure, who loves Ardeshir.

In the poem: First at D6.5, Golnar Falls in Love with Ardeshir; last at D6.6, Ardavan Pursues Ardeshir and Golnar
Named: 11 times, in 2 sections
Main stories: D6 The Ashkanian Dynasty (11)
Plates: Vol III: II

Genealogical plate: The Rise of the House of Sasan — Volume III, Plate II: The Rise of the House of Sasan. Tap to open the genealogies.

In the poem’s own words

The 2 sections that name Golnar most often, with the summary from the Notes and the couplets that name Golnar. Tap a couplet number to read it in the full poem.

D6.5

Golnar Falls in Love with Ardeshir

Ardavan’s favorite slave Golnar sees Ardeshir from the palace roof and climbs down to him by kamand. Babak dies. Golnar overhears the astrologers predict that a man now held low will flee and become king, and she agrees to escape with Ardeshir, taking jewels from the treasury.

D6.5.2
Her name was Golnar, favorite by far,Moon-faced, jewel-bright, sweet-scented as a star.
D6.5.28
He sent them to Golnar, to watch the skies,And read what fate the turning stars devise.
D6.5.40
When night was black as pitch, Golnar drew near,And came into the presence of Ardeshir.

Golnar named 7 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes

D6.6

Ardavan Pursues Ardeshir and Golnar

Ardavan learns that Golnar has fled with Ardeshir and gives chase. Villagers report a ram running behind the riders; his minister says it is Ardeshir’s farr and the pursuit is hopeless. Two strangers at a pool warn Ardeshir on. Ardavan gives up and turns back.

D6.6.1
The monarch asked his servants, “Why todayDoes Golnar shun her duties, stay away?
D6.6.18
Swift as the wind Ardeshir and Golnar sped,Without a pause, by fear and fortune led.
D6.6.21
Still riding, he said, “Golnar, you and IAre joined to hardship as we onward fly.