New Naqqaliشاهنامه
Hero · House of Sahm · Pahlevan of Iran

Rostamرستم

ros-TAMalso Tahamtanalso Piltan

Son of Zal and Rudabeh, the greatest Pahlevan of Iran; also called Tahamtan and Piltan. He slays Esfandiyar and dies through his half-brother Shaghad's treachery.

In the poem
First at A9.1, A Hero Is Born; last at E8.2, Khosrow Parviz Answers Shiruyeh
Named
1,265 times, in 267 sections (including 11 where the name may belong to another Rostam, Rostam (Hormizd’s son))
Horse
Rakhsh, rose-colored and dappled, from the herds of Zabul
Parents
Zal, Rudabeh
Children
Sohrab, Faramarz, Banu Gashasp
Plates
Vol I: VII, Vol II: VIII
Pictures
181 panels · identity sheets

How we draw Rostam

The identity sheets the illustrator works from, one for each stage of life. Tap to open full size. More in the Art section.
Rostam, identity sheet: Infant (and silken effigy)
Infant (and silken effigy)
Rostam, identity sheet: Child giant (~8–10)
Child giant (~8–10)
Rostam, identity sheet: Youth giant (~14)
Youth giant (~14)
Rostam, identity sheet: Young adult prime
Young adult prime
Rostam, identity sheet: Older champion (grey-touched)
Older champion (grey-touched)
Rostam, identity sheet: Dying (C9.4)
Dying (C9.4)

In the pictures

Rostam in 181 woodcut panels of the illustrated poem, in story order. Tap one to see it with the couplets it illustrates.
Rudabeh Names Her Son RostamA9.1Rudabeh Names Her Son RostamSahm Beholds the Silken RostamA9.1Sahm Beholds the Silken RostamRostam Rides Out to Meet SahmA9.2Rostam Rides Out to Meet SahmRostam Slays the White ElephantA9.3Rostam Slays the White ElephantZal Charges Rostam with VengeanceA9.3Zal Charges Rostam with VengeanceRostam Enters Sepand as Salt MerchantA9.4Rostam Enters Sepand as Salt MerchantRostam Strikes Down the CastellanA9.4Rostam Strikes Down the CastellanRostam Burns the Fortress of SepandA9.5Rostam Burns the Fortress of SepandRostam Receives Sahm's GorzB2.1Rostam Receives Sahm's GorzRostam Lassoes Rakhsh as the Mare AttacksB2.2Rostam Lassoes Rakhsh as the Mare AttacksThe Price of Rakhsh Is IranB2.2The Price of Rakhsh Is IranZal's Host Marches from ZabulB2.3Zal's Host Marches from Zabul
All 181 pictures
I Am Kay QobadB2.4I Am Kay QobadRostam Wrenches Kulun's SpearB2.4Rostam Wrenches Kulun's SpearIran's Host beneath the Kaveh StandardB3.1Iran's Host beneath the Kaveh StandardRostam Lifts Afrasiab by the GirdleB3.2Rostam Lifts Afrasiab by the GirdleRostam Seated beside the ThroneB3.2Rostam Seated beside the ThroneKay Qobad Crowns RostamB3.4Kay Qobad Crowns RostamRostam Sets Out in the Babr-e BayanB4.4Rostam Sets Out in the Babr-e BayanRakhsh Kills the Lion in the ReedsB5.1Rakhsh Kills the Lion in the ReedsThe Ram Leads Rostam to WaterB5.2The Ram Leads Rostam to WaterRakhsh Wakes Rostam a Third TimeB5.3Rakhsh Wakes Rostam a Third TimeRakhsh Bites the DragonB5.3Rakhsh Bites the DragonRostam Sings at the Enchanted FeastB5.4Rostam Sings at the Enchanted FeastThe Witch Revealed in the KamandB5.4The Witch Revealed in the KamandThe Watchman Strikes the SleeperB5.5The Watchman Strikes the SleeperRostam Lassoes UladB5.5Rostam Lassoes UladRostam Hurls Arzhang's HeadB5.6Rostam Hurls Arzhang's HeadRostam Lifts the White DivB5.7Rostam Lifts the White DivSight Restored to the Captive ShahB5.7Sight Restored to the Captive ShahRostam Hurls the Uprooted TreeB5.9Rostam Hurls the Uprooted TreeJuya Spitted on Rostam's SpearB5.10Juya Spitted on Rostam's SpearRostam Carries the Sorcerer-King's StoneB5.10Rostam Carries the Sorcerer-King's StoneKavus Bestows the Khilat on RostamB5.11Kavus Bestows the Khilat on RostamRostam Waits Alone at SunsetB6.5Rostam Waits Alone at SunsetRostam Plucks the King of ShamB6.6Rostam Plucks the King of ShamGudarz Rebukes the Fallen ShahB6.10Gudarz Rebukes the Fallen ShahThe Seven Hunt in Turan's PreserveB7.1The Seven Hunt in Turan's PreserveRostam Laughs and Calls for WineB7.1Rostam Laughs and Calls for WineAfrasiab Sees Rostam on RakhshB7.2Afrasiab Sees Rostam on RakhshRostam's Shout Saves ZavarehB7.3Rostam's Shout Saves ZavarehAfrasiab Slips the KamandB7.4Afrasiab Slips the KamandSamangan's King Meets RostamB8.3Samangan's King Meets RostamTahmineh Enters by CandlelightB8.4Tahmineh Enters by CandlelightRostam Gives Tahmineh the MohrehB8.4Rostam Gives Tahmineh the MohrehRostam Rides Out to Meet GivB8.12Rostam Rides Out to Meet GivRostam Lingers Over WineB8.12Rostam Lingers Over WineRostam Strikes Down TusB8.13Rostam Strikes Down TusGudarz Turns Rostam BackB8.13Gudarz Turns Rostam BackRostam Watches Sohrab's FeastB8.15Rostam Watches Sohrab's FeastRostam's Fist Fells Zhendeh RazmB8.15Rostam's Fist Fells Zhendeh RazmSohrab Points Out the Green PavilionB8.16Sohrab Points Out the Green PavilionRostam Denies His NameB8.17Rostam Denies His NameFather and Son Clash with GorzB8.18Father and Son Clash with GorzRostam's Night Charge to ZavarehB8.19Rostam's Night Charge to ZavarehSohrab Offers Peace at DawnB8.20Sohrab Offers Peace at DawnSohrab Casts Rostam DownB8.20Sohrab Casts Rostam DownRostam Prays Beside the StreamB8.20Rostam Prays Beside the StreamRostam's Khanjar Finds His SonB8.21Rostam's Khanjar Finds His SonRostam Sees the TokenB8.21Rostam Sees the TokenThe Chiefs Stay Rostam's HandB8.21The Chiefs Stay Rostam's HandRostam's Pavilion Given to the FireB8.23Rostam's Pavilion Given to the FireZal Meets Sohrab's BierB8.24Zal Meets Sohrab's BierRostam Trains the Young SiavashB9.3Rostam Trains the Young SiavashSiavash Kisses the Ground before KavusB9.4Siavash Kisses the Ground before KavusThe Battle at the Gates of BalkhB9.16The Battle at the Gates of BalkhSiavash and Rostam Counsel by NightB9.22Siavash and Rostam Counsel by NightSiavash Entrusts His Letter to RostamB9.24Siavash Entrusts His Letter to RostamKavus Darkens at Siavash's LetterB9.25Kavus Darkens at Siavash's LetterRostam Storms from the CourtB9.26Rostam Storms from the CourtSiavash Paints the Halls of Siavash-GardB9.42Siavash Paints the Halls of Siavash-GardRostam Rebukes Kavus in the DustB10.3Rostam Rebukes Kavus in the DustRostam Drags Sudabeh from Her ThroneB10.4Rostam Drags Sudabeh from Her ThroneSurkha Bound before RostamB10.6Surkha Bound before RostamRostam Hurls Pilsam from the SaddleB10.8Rostam Hurls Pilsam from the SaddleRostam Unhorses Afrasiab; Houman StrikesB10.9Rostam Unhorses Afrasiab; Houman StrikesRostam on Afrasiab's ThroneB10.11Rostam on Afrasiab's ThroneTuran's Nobles Plead in the DustB10.13Turan's Nobles Plead in the DustKhosrow Descends to Greet RostamB11.2Khosrow Descends to Greet RostamThe Shah Scatters Dinars in Ruined TownsB11.3The Shah Scatters Dinars in Ruined TownsKhosrow Swears the Oath Before the FlameB11.4Khosrow Swears the Oath Before the FlameRostam Counsels the Shah at DawnB11.7Rostam Counsels the Shah at DawnRostam Rides Beside Departing FaramarzB11.8Rostam Rides Beside Departing FaramarzRostam Pleads for the ArmyB13.3Rostam Pleads for the ArmyKhosrow Weeps and Arms RostamB13.15Khosrow Weeps and Arms RostamFarangis Consents in Silent GriefB13.16Farangis Consents in Silent GriefKhosrow Sees Rostam's Army OffB13.16Khosrow Sees Rostam's Army OffRostam Hears the Chiefs by LamplightB13.26Rostam Hears the Chiefs by LamplightRostam Surveys the Host of TuranB13.27Rostam Surveys the Host of TuranRostam Shoots Ashkabus on FootB13.28Rostam Shoots Ashkabus on FootRostam Arms in the Babr-e BayanB13.30Rostam Arms in the Babr-e BayanRostam Lassoes KamusB13.32Rostam Lassoes KamusRostam Carries the Bound KamusB13.32Rostam Carries the Bound KamusRostam Seizes the Tail of Chingish's SteedB14.2Rostam Seizes the Tail of Chingish's SteedHouman in Disguise Questions RostamB14.3Houman in Disguise Questions RostamPiran Dismounts before RostamB14.5Piran Dismounts before RostamGudarz Warns against Piran's GuileB14.7Gudarz Warns against Piran's GuileRostam's Night Cup and VowB14.7Rostam's Night Cup and VowRostam Rebukes Piran on the FieldB14.9Rostam Rebukes Piran on the FieldRostam Unhorses Shangul with One ThrustB14.11Rostam Unhorses Shangul with One ThrustRostam Alone in the Press of ChinB14.11Rostam Alone in the Press of ChinRostam's Gorz Fells SavaB14.12Rostam's Gorz Fells SavaRostam Flings Gahar Like a LeafB14.13Rostam Flings Gahar Like a LeafThe Khan of Chin Lassoed from His ElephantB14.14The Khan of Chin Lassoed from His ElephantIranians Wash Away the Battle's GoreB14.15Iranians Wash Away the Battle's GoreRostam Marvels at the Mountain of SpoilsB14.16Rostam Marvels at the Mountain of SpoilsRostam Parts from Fariborz and the SpoilsB14.17Rostam Parts from Fariborz and the SpoilsRostam's Gorz Crushes KafurB14.20Rostam's Gorz Crushes KafurThe Walls of Tur's Fortress Fall in FireB14.20The Walls of Tur's Fortress Fall in FireFarghar Spies on Rostam's PavilionB14.21Farghar Spies on Rostam's PavilionRostam's Gorz Rings on Puladvand's HeadB14.24Rostam's Gorz Rings on Puladvand's HeadRostam Lifts Puladvand Like a Plane-TreeB14.25Rostam Lifts Puladvand Like a Plane-TreeRostam Burns Afrasiab's TownsB14.26Rostam Burns Afrasiab's TownsKay Khosrow Embraces RostamB14.27Kay Khosrow Embraces RostamRostam Takes Leave of the ShahB14.28Rostam Takes Leave of the ShahThe Golden Onager Vanishes from the KamandC1.3The Golden Onager Vanishes from the KamandAkvan Lifts Rostam into the SkyC1.4Akvan Lifts Rostam into the SkyRostam Fights the Nahang in the SeaC1.4Rostam Fights the Nahang in the SeaRostam Routs Afrasiab and Takes the ElephantsC1.5Rostam Routs Afrasiab and Takes the ElephantsRostam Slays Akvan the DivC1.5Rostam Slays Akvan the DivKay Khosrow Rides Out to Meet RostamC1.6Kay Khosrow Rides Out to Meet RostamGiv Meets Rostam at Zal's PalaceC2.15Giv Meets Rostam at Zal's PalaceThe Chiefs of Iran Greet Rostam on the RoadC2.17The Chiefs of Iran Greet Rostam on the RoadThe Jewelled Tree Rains Musk over KhosrowC2.18The Jewelled Tree Rains Musk over KhosrowRostam Wins Gorgin's ReleaseC2.19Rostam Wins Gorgin's ReleaseRostam Chooses Treasure for His Merchant GuiseC2.20Rostam Chooses Treasure for His Merchant GuiseRostam's Merchant Caravan Enters TuranC2.21Rostam's Merchant Caravan Enters TuranRostam in Disguise Presents Gifts to PiranC2.21Rostam in Disguise Presents Gifts to PiranRostam Hides His Ring in the Roasted BirdC2.22Rostam Hides His Ring in the Roasted BirdRostam Hurls Akvan's StoneC2.24Rostam Hurls Akvan's StoneBijan Drawn Up from the PitC2.24Bijan Drawn Up from the PitRostam Breaks Afrasiab's Palace GateC2.25Rostam Breaks Afrasiab's Palace GateRostam Taunts Afrasiab before the LinesC2.26Rostam Taunts Afrasiab before the LinesAfrasiab Casts Down His SwordC2.27Afrasiab Casts Down His SwordRostam Presents Bijan to Kay KhosrowC2.28Rostam Presents Bijan to Kay KhosrowRostam Rides Out on CamelsC4.14Rostam Rides Out on CamelsAfrasiab Finds Rostam AwakeC4.16Afrasiab Finds Rostam AwakeKhosrow Circles Gang-BeheshtC4.18Khosrow Circles Gang-BeheshtRostam Casts Down the Sable StandardC4.21Rostam Casts Down the Sable StandardRostam Counsels against Single CombatC4.27Rostam Counsels against Single CombatThe Darkened Camp and the TrenchC4.28The Darkened Camp and the TrenchAfrasiab's Riders Plunge into the TrenchC4.29Afrasiab's Riders Plunge into the TrenchRostam Greets the Returning ShahC4.38Rostam Greets the Returning ShahGiv Brings the News to ZalC4.49Giv Brings the News to ZalKhosrow Rises to Greet ZalC4.51Khosrow Rises to Greet ZalZal Rises to Reproach the ShahC4.53Zal Rises to Reproach the ShahKhosrow Seats Zal Beside HimC4.54Khosrow Seats Zal Beside HimThe Shah Enthroned Amid the Royal CampC4.55The Shah Enthroned Amid the Royal CampRostam's Patent Is SealedC4.57Rostam's Patent Is SealedKhosrow Crowns LohraspC4.60Khosrow Crowns LohraspZal Stains His Lips with DustC4.60Zal Stains His Lips with DustThe Multitude Pleads on the MountainC4.62The Multitude Pleads on the MountainGudarz Rends His Robes Before LohraspC4.64Gudarz Rends His Robes Before LohraspRostam and Zal Welcome GoshtasbC6.25Rostam and Zal Welcome GoshtasbRostam Kicks Aside Bahman's BoulderC8.8Rostam Kicks Aside Bahman's BoulderRostam Feasts Bahman on Wild AssC8.8Rostam Feasts Bahman on Wild AssRostam and Esfandiyar Embrace at the HirmundC8.11Rostam and Esfandiyar Embrace at the HirmundRostam Refuses the ChainsC8.11Rostam Refuses the ChainsRostam Waits for the SummonsC8.12Rostam Waits for the SummonsRostam Rides Into the CampC8.13Rostam Rides Into the CampEsfandiyar Slanders Zal's BirthC8.14Esfandiyar Slanders Zal's BirthThe Crushing HandclaspC8.17The Crushing HandclaspRostam Drains the Great CupC8.18Rostam Drains the Great CupRostam Speaks to the Royal TentC8.19Rostam Speaks to the Royal TentRostam Addresses His War-GearC8.20Rostam Addresses His War-GearEsfandiyar Vaults Onto the Black SteedC8.21Esfandiyar Vaults Onto the Black SteedThe Struggle for the BeltC8.21The Struggle for the BeltRostam Leaps From Wounded RakhshC8.23Rostam Leaps From Wounded RakhshRostam Wades the Hirmund at DuskC8.23Rostam Wades the Hirmund at DuskThe Household Tends Rostam's WoundsC8.24The Household Tends Rostam's WoundsThe Simorgh Heals Rostam and RakhshC8.25The Simorgh Heals Rostam and RakhshThe Tamarisk by the SeaC8.25The Tamarisk by the SeaRostam Fashions the Tamarisk ArrowC8.26Rostam Fashions the Tamarisk ArrowThe Tamarisk Arrow StrikesC8.27The Tamarisk Arrow StrikesBishutan and Bahman Reach the PrinceC8.27Bishutan and Bahman Reach the PrinceEsfandiyar Entrusts Bahman to RostamC8.28Esfandiyar Entrusts Bahman to RostamRostam Mourns the Dead PrinceC8.28Rostam Mourns the Dead PrinceThe Funeral Train Leaves ZabulC8.29The Funeral Train Leaves ZabulThe King of Kabul Begs BarefootC9.3The King of Kabul Begs BarefootRakhsh Falls Into the PitC9.3Rakhsh Falls Into the PitRostam's Last ArrowC9.4Rostam's Last Arrow

In the poem’s own words

The 8 sections that name Rostam most often, with the summary from the Notes and the couplets that name Rostam. Tap a couplet number to read it in the full poem.
B2.4

Rostam Brings Kay Qobad from Alborz

Rostam rides to Alborz, breaking through the Turanian outposts, and finds a young prince feasting by a stream who turns out to be Kay Qobad. Qobad tells of a dream of falcons bearing a crown. On the way back Rostam kills Kulun, and he brings Qobad secretly to Zal.

  • B2.4.7
    When Zal had spoken, Rostam bowed his head;His lashes swept the dust; then off Rakhsh sped.
  • B2.4.12
    No outpost held where Rostam drove ahead;The road lay open as the riders fled.
  • B2.4.21
    Meanwhile bold Rostam pressed along the way,To seek the Shah before the close of day.
Rostam named 19 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
B5.9

Rostam’s Embassy to Mazandaran

Rostam rides as envoy, uproots a tree and flings it at the welcoming party, and crushes the hands of the champion Kalahur. Posing as Rostam’s servant, he refuses the king’s bribes, tears the headsman in two and returns to urge Kavus to war.

  • B5.9.1
    The letter sealed, bold Rostam rode away,His mighty gorz prepared for coming fray.
  • B5.9.5
    But Rostam marked a tree beside the track,Gripped two great branches, twisted both far back.
  • B5.9.9
    He crushed it hard, intent to make him yield,But Rostam laughed and no distress revealed.
Rostam named 17 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
B5.10

Kavus Wars with Mazandaran

The armies meet, and Rostam spears the boasting champion Juya out of the saddle. After a week of battle Kavus prays; Rostam then spears the sorcerer-king, who turns himself into a rock. Rostam carries it to camp, the king emerges and is killed, and Ulad receives Mazandaran.

  • B5.10.1
    When Rostam left, the sorcerer-king moved fast,And marshaled all his warriors grim and vast.
  • B5.10.6
    To Rostam first he gave the battle sign,Then Tus took right and Gudarz left the line.
  • B5.10.14
    The armies formed, while Rostam led the van,Whose arm had never yielded to a man.
Rostam named 20 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
B8.13

Kavus’s Anger at Rostam

Kavus, furious at the delay, orders Rostam and Giv hanged. Rostam strikes Tus, declares that his strength comes from God alone and rides away. Gudarz talks Kavus into repentance, then shames Rostam into returning with a rumor that he fears Sohrab. King and champion are reconciled.

  • B8.13.1
    As Rostam neared the court, Tus crossed the plain,With Gudarz riding in his warlike train.
  • B8.13.4
    And Rostam too dismounted from his steed;The chiefs inquired of him with gracious heed.
  • B8.13.8
    At Giv he first unleashed his bitter spite,Then turned on Rostam, burning in his sight.
Rostam named 25 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
B8.21

The Tragedy of Sohrab

Rostam throws Sohrab and stabs him. Dying, Sohrab warns that his father will avenge him, and the token on his arm reveals the truth. Sohrab asks mercy for his army and for Hajir. Rostam nearly kills Hajir and then himself, and Gudarz restrains him.

  • B8.21.5
    Then Rostam, troubled, seized him by the neck,The warlike nahang, holding him in check.
  • B8.21.7
    Then like a lion striking down its prey,Rostam dashed Sohrab upon earth that day.
  • B8.21.23
    Then Rostam heard, and all his senses failed;The world grew dark; his face and spirit paled.
Rostam named 22 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
B13.16

Fariborz Asks for Farangis’s Hand

Fariborz, Kavus’s son, asks Rostam to win him Siavash’s widow Farangis. Rostam persuades Khosrow, who asks his mother. She weeps but consents out of respect for Rostam and the Shah, and the marriage is made before the army marches.

  • B13.16.1
    Fariborz came to Rostam, heart intent,And spoke the secret wish his purpose meant:
  • B13.16.10
    Then Rostam answered: “What you ask, I do;Whatever you desire, I shall see through.”
  • B13.16.28
    Together then they sought the moonlike dame,Rostam the peerless and the Shah of fame.
Rostam named 16 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
B14.20

Rostam Fights Kafur the Maneater

Fariborz returns with the Shah’s gifts. Rostam marches to Sughd, then to Bidad, whose man-eating king Kafur overwhelms Gostaham’s force until Rostam kills him. Rostam undermines and burns the walls of Tur’s ancient fortress, takes it, and sends Giv raiding towards Khutan.

  • B14.20.3
    Then Rostam, elephantine chief, was glad,And joy restored the mighty heart he had.
  • B14.20.4
    The army’s great men gathered near and cried:“May earth through Rostam prosper far and wide.
  • B14.20.8
    Then Rostam led the army on its wayTo Sughd, and there they made a fortnight’s stay.
Rostam named 19 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
C8.23

Rostam Flees to the Heights

The archery begins. Esfandiyar’s arrows pierce Rostam and Rakhsh while Rostam’s cannot hurt him. Rostam takes to a height on foot, refuses Zavareh’s horse, and crosses the river bleeding. Esfandiyar mourns his sons, sends them home, and marvels at his enemy.

  • C8.23.7
    When shafts flew from Esfandiyar’s strong bow,Both Rostam and great Rakhsh received the blow.
  • C8.23.8
    The prince rode round him; Rostam’s arrows flew,But none could pierce that body through and through.
  • C8.23.9
    Each shaft the prince released left Rostam sore;His own shafts failed; he could withstand no more.
Rostam named 16 times here · read the section in the full poem · notes
All 267 sections that name Rostam
  1. A9.1 A Hero Is Born
  2. A9.2 Sahm Comes to Meet Rostam
  3. A9.3 Rostam Slays the White Elephant
  4. A9.4 Rostam Goes to Mount Sepand
  5. A9.5 Rostam Proudly Writes His Father
  6. A9.6 Zal Proudly Writes His Father
  7. B2.1 Afrasiab Invades after Garshasp’s Death
  8. B2.2 Rostam Catches Rakhsh
  9. B2.3 Zal Leads Iran against Afrasiab
  10. B2.4 Rostam Brings Kay Qobad from Alborz
  11. B3.1 Kay Qobad Takes the Throne
  12. B3.2 Rostam Fights Afrasiab
  13. B3.3 Afrasiab Goes to His Father
  14. B3.4 Pashang Sues Kay Qobad for Peace
  15. B4.1 The Reign of Kay Kavus, His Sitting upon the Throne, and His Intent to March to Mazandaran
  16. B4.2 Zal Counsels Kay Kavus
  17. B4.4 Kay Kavus Writes to Zal and Rostam
  18. B5.1 Rakhsh Fights a Lion
  19. B5.2 Rostam Finds a Spring
  20. B5.3 Rostam Fights a Dragon
  21. B5.4 Rostam Slays a Witch
  22. B5.5 Rostam Takes Ulad Captive
  23. B5.6 Rostam Fights the Div Arzhang
  24. B5.7 Rostam Slays the White Div
  25. B5.8 Kavus’s Letter to Mazandaran
  26. B5.9 Rostam’s Embassy to Mazandaran
  27. B5.10 Kavus Wars with Mazandaran
  28. B5.11 Kavus Returns to Iran
  29. B6.1 Kavus Wars with Hamavaran
  30. B6.4 Afrasiab Invades Iran
  31. B6.5 Rostam’s Message to Hamavaran
  32. B6.6 Rostam Battles the Three Kings
  33. B6.7 Kavus’s Message to Afrasiab
  34. B6.8 Kavus Sets the World in Order
  35. B6.10 Rostam Brings Back Kay Kavus
  36. B7.1 Rostam and the Seven Warriors Go Hunting
  37. B7.2 Rostam Battles the Turanians
  38. B7.3 Pilsam Battles the Iranians and Alkus’ Battle
  39. B7.4 Afrasiab Flees the Battlefield
  40. B8.1 The Prelude
  41. B8.2 Rostam Goes on a Chase
  42. B8.3 Rostam Arrives at the City of Samangan
  43. B8.4 Tahmineh Seeks Out Rostam
  44. B8.5 The Birth of Sohrab
  45. B8.7 Afrasiab Sends Envoys to Sohrab
  46. B8.9 Sohrab Fights with Gordafarid
  47. B8.10 Gazhdaham’s Letter to Kavus
  48. B8.11 Sohrab Takes the White Fortress
  49. B8.12 Kavus Summons Rostam from Zabulistan
  50. B8.13 Kavus’s Anger at Rostam
  51. B8.15 Rostam Slays Zhendeh Razm
  52. B8.16 Sohrab Questions Hajir on Iran’s Chiefs
  53. B8.17 Sohrab Attacks Kavus’s Army
  54. B8.18 Rostam and Sohrab Meet in Combat
  55. B8.19 Rostam and Sohrab Leave the Field
  56. B8.20 Sohrab Casts Rostam Down
  57. B8.21 The Tragedy of Sohrab
  58. B8.22 Rostam Seeks the Elixir
  59. B8.23 Rostam’s Lament for Sohrab
  60. B8.24 Rostam Returns to Zabulistan
  61. B8.25 Tahmineh Hears of Sohrab’s Death
  62. B9.3 The Birth of Siavash
  63. B9.4 Siavash Arrives from Zabulistan
  64. B9.15 News of Afrasiab Reaches Kavus
  65. B9.16 Siavash Leads the Army
  66. B9.18 Kavus Replies to Siavash
  67. B9.21 Afrasiab Consults the Nobles
  68. B9.22 Garsivaz Comes before Siavash
  69. B9.23 Siavash’s Treaty with Afrasiab
  70. B9.24 Rostam Bears Siavash’s Message
  71. B9.25 Kavus Receives the Message
  72. B9.26 Kavus Dispatches Rostam to Sistan
  73. B9.27 The Shah’s Reply to Siavash
  74. B9.28 Siavash Consults Bahram and Zangeh
  75. B9.31 Siavash Yields Command to Bahram
  76. B9.35 Piran Proposes Farangis to Siavash
  77. B9.42 Siavash Founds Siavash-Gard
  78. B9.44 Afrasiab Sends Garsivaz to Siavash
  79. B9.52 Siavash’s Farewell to Farangis
  80. B9.53 Siavash Is Taken by Afrasiab
  81. B9.54 Farangis Pleads before Afrasiab
  82. B10.3 Rostam Comes before Kavus
  83. B10.4 Rostam Takes Vengeance
  84. B10.5 Faramarz Slays Varazad
  85. B10.6 Surkha Marches against Rostam
  86. B10.7 Afrasiab Marches to Avenge His Son
  87. B10.8 The Death of Pilsam
  88. B10.9 Afrasiab Flees before Rostam
  89. B10.10 Afrasiab Sends Kay Khosrow to Khutan
  90. B10.11 Rostam Rules Turan for Seven Years
  91. B10.12 Zavareh Goes to Siavash’s Hunting-Ground
  92. B10.13 Rostam’s Harrowing of Turan
  93. B10.14 Rostam Returns to Iran
  94. B10.15 Gudarz’s Dream of Kay Khosrow
  95. B10.17 Giv Finds Kay Khosrow
  96. B10.21 Giv Puts Kulbad and Nastihan to Flight
  97. B10.23 The Contest of Piran and Giv
  98. B10.28 Kay Khosrow Crosses the Jihun
  99. B10.29 Kay Khosrow Reaches Isfahan
  100. B10.31 Tus Refuses Allegiance to Kay Khosrow
  101. B11.2 Iran’s Nobles Honor Kay Khosrow
  102. B11.3 Kay Khosrow Surveys His Kingdom
  103. B11.4 The Vow of Vengeance against Afrasiab
  104. B11.7 Rostam Is Sent to the Land of Hind
  105. B11.8 Kay Khosrow Inspects the Army
  106. B12.2 Tus Goes to Turkistan
  107. B12.26 The Iranians Return to Khosrow
  108. B13.1 The Prelude
  109. B13.2 Khosrow’s Rebuke of Tus
  110. B13.3 Khosrow Grants Pardon
  111. B13.8 Tus and Houman Meet in Combat
  112. B13.12 The Turanians Besiege Hamavan
  113. B13.13 Piran’s March to Mount Hamavan
  114. B13.14 The Iranians Make a Night-Attack, Tus, Giv, Rohham Are Surrounded but Are Saved
  115. B13.15 Khosrow Learns of His Army’s Plight
  116. B13.16 Fariborz Asks for Farangis’s Hand
  117. B13.17 Tus Sees Siavash in a Dream
  118. B13.20 The Iranians Debate Their Course
  119. B13.21 Gudarz Hears of Rostam’s Coming
  120. B13.23 Fariborz Reaches Mount Hamavan
  121. B13.24 Piran Consults the Khan of Chin
  122. B13.25 Giv and Tus Battle Kamus
  123. B13.26 The Coming of Rostam
  124. B13.27 Iran and Turan Set Their Battle Lines
  125. B13.28 Rostam Battles Ashkabus
  126. B13.29 Piran Reckons with Rostam’s Coming
  127. B13.30 Iran and Turan Prepare for Battle
  128. B13.31 Kamus Slays Alva
  129. B13.32 Rostam Slays Kamus
  130. B14.2 Chingish Faces Rostam
  131. B14.3 Houman Bears the Khan’s Message
  132. B14.4 Piran Consults Houman and the Khan
  133. B14.5 Piran Comes before Rostam
  134. B14.6 Turan’s Counsel before Battle
  135. B14.7 Rostam Exhorts the Troops
  136. B14.8 The Battle Lines Are Drawn
  137. B14.9 Rostam Rebukes Piran
  138. B14.10 Battle Is Joined
  139. B14.11 Rostam Puts Shangul to Flight
  140. B14.12 Rostam Battles Sava
  141. B14.13 Rostam Slays Gahar of Gahan
  142. B14.14 The Khan Is Taken Prisoner
  143. B14.15 The Turanians Are Overthrown
  144. B14.16 Rostam Divides the Spoils
  145. B14.17 Rostam’s Letter to Kay Khosrow
  146. B14.18 The Shah Replies to Rostam
  147. B14.19 Afrasiab Hears of His Army’s Defeat
  148. B14.20 Rostam Fights Kafur the Maneater
  149. B14.21 Afrasiab Hears of Rostam’s Coming
  150. B14.22 Afrasiab Writes to Puladvand
  151. B14.23 Puladvand Battles Giv and Tus
  152. B14.24 Rostam Battles Puladvand
  153. B14.25 Rostam Wrestles Puladvand
  154. B14.26 Afrasiab Flees before Rostam
  155. B14.27 Rostam’s Return to Court
  156. B14.28 Rostam Returns to Sistan
  157. C1.2 Rostam Is Summoned to Fight Akvan
  158. C1.3 Rostam’s Quest for the Div
  159. C1.4 Akvan Flings Rostam into the Sea
  160. C1.5 Rostam Slays Akvan the Div
  161. C1.6 Rostam Returns to Iran
  162. C2.4 Gorgin Tricks Bijan
  163. C2.9 Piran Pleads for Bijan’s Life
  164. C2.13 The Cup Reveals Bijan
  165. C2.14 Khosrow Writes to Rostam
  166. C2.15 Giv Brings Word to Rostam
  167. C2.16 Giv Is Feasted by Rostam
  168. C2.17 Rostam Comes to Khosrow
  169. C2.18 The Pahlevans Feast with Khosrow
  170. C2.19 Rostam Pleads for Gorgin
  171. C2.20 Rostam Arms His Men
  172. C2.21 Rostam Goes to Khutan to Piran
  173. C2.22 Manijeh Seeks Out Rostam
  174. C2.23 Bijan Learns Rostam Is Coming
  175. C2.24 Rostam Rescues Bijan from the Pit
  176. C2.25 Rostam Attacks Afrasiab’s Palace by Night
  177. C2.26 Afrasiab Comes against Rostam
  178. C2.27 The Iranians Defeat Afrasiab
  179. C2.28 Rostam’s Return to Kay Khosrow
  180. C2.29 Kay Khosrow Holds a Feast
  181. C3.2 Afrasiab Summons the Army of Turan
  182. C3.3 Kay Khosrow Sends Gudarz against Turan
  183. C3.7 Bijan Urges Giv to Fight
  184. C3.8 Houman Seeks Leave for Battle
  185. C3.17 Gudarz Appeals to Khosrow
  186. C3.18 Khosrow Sends His Reply
  187. C3.20 Piran’s Letter to Gudarz
  188. C3.21 Gudarz Replies to Piran
  189. C4.2 Kay Khosrow Musters against Afrasiab
  190. C4.3 Afrasiab Hears of Piran’s Death
  191. C4.4 Kay Khosrow Hears of Afrasiab’s Advance
  192. C4.8 Kay Khosrow Battles Shideh
  193. C4.10 The Armies Meet in Battle
  194. C4.14 Khosrow Crosses the Jihun
  195. C4.16 Gang-Behesht Shelters Afrasiab
  196. C4.18 Kay Khosrow Reaches Gang-Behesht
  197. C4.21 Gang-Behesht Falls to Kay Khosrow
  198. C4.27 Afrasiab’s Message to Kay Khosrow
  199. C4.28 The Iranians and Turanians Fight
  200. C4.29 Afrasiab’s Night Attack Fails
  201. C4.31 Afrasiab Crosses the Sea
  202. C4.34 Khosrow’s Embassy to the Faghfoor and Makran
  203. C4.38 Khosrow Returns to His Father’s City
  204. C4.49 Zal and Rostam Are Summoned
  205. C4.51 Zal Admonishes Kay Khosrow
  206. C4.52 Kay Khosrow Answers Zal
  207. C4.54 Khosrow’s Answer and Zal’s Apology
  208. C4.55 Kay Khosrow Gives His Last Counsel
  209. C4.56 Gudarz Receives Khosrow’s Mandate
  210. C4.57 Zal Petitions Khosrow for Rostam
  211. C4.62 Kay Khosrow Vanishes in the Snow
  212. C4.63 The Pahlevans Are Lost in the Snow
  213. C4.64 Lohrasp Learns Kay Khosrow Has Vanished
  214. C5.2 Goshtasb Departs in Anger
  215. C5.4 Goshtasb Sets Off for Rum
  216. C6.10 Goshtasb Hears Jamasp’s Prophecy
  217. C6.13 Girami and Nivzar Are Slain
  218. C6.19 The Turks Ask Mercy of Esfandiyar
  219. C6.25 Arjasp Prepares the Second War
  220. C7.15 Esfandiyar Returns to Goshtasb
  221. C8.3 Goshtasb Replies to His Son
  222. C8.4 Katayun Counsels Esfandiyar
  223. C8.5 Esfandiyar Marches to Zabul
  224. C8.6 Esfandiyar Sends Bahman to Rostam
  225. C8.7 Bahman Arrives in Zabul
  226. C8.8 Bahman Delivers Esfandiyar’s Message
  227. C8.9 Rostam Answers Esfandiyar
  228. C8.10 Bahman Returns to Esfandiyar
  229. C8.11 Rostam and Esfandiyar Meet
  230. C8.12 Rostam Is Slighted by Esfandiyar
  231. C8.13 Esfandiyar Makes Excuse to Rostam
  232. C8.14 Esfandiyar Insults Rostam’s Race
  233. C8.15 Rostam Defends His Race and Deeds
  234. C8.16 Esfandiyar Vaunts His Lineage
  235. C8.17 Rostam Boasts of His Valor
  236. C8.18 Rostam and Esfandiyar Drink Together
  237. C8.19 Rostam Returns to His Palace
  238. C8.20 Zal Advises Rostam
  239. C8.21 Rostam Battles Esfandiyar
  240. C8.22 Zavareh and Faramarz Slay Esfandiyar’s Sons
  241. C8.23 Rostam Flees to the Heights
  242. C8.24 Rostam Consults His Family
  243. C8.25 The Simorgh Comes to Rostam’s Aid
  244. C8.26 Rostam Faces Esfandiyar Again
  245. C8.27 Rostam Shoots Esfandiyar in the Eyes
  246. C8.28 Esfandiyar’s Last Wishes
  247. C8.29 Bishutan Brings Esfandiyar Home
  248. C8.30 Rostam Sends Bahman Back to Iran
  249. C9.1 The Prelude
  250. C9.2 Rostam Comes to Kabul for His Brother
  251. C9.3 The Treachery of the Hunting-Ground
  252. C9.4 The Death of Rostam
  253. C9.5 Zal Hears of Rostam’s Death
  254. C9.6 Faramarz Avenges Rostam
  255. C9.7 Rudabeh’s Grief for Rostam
  256. C9.8 Bahman Receives the Kingdom
  257. D1.1 Bahman Seeks Vengeance for His Father
  258. D1.2 Bahman Humiliates Zal
  259. D1.3 Faramarz Fights Bahman
  260. D1.4 Bahman Releases Zal
  261. E5.6 Bahram Chubin Takes Command
  262. E5.24 Bahram Chubin Reveals His Ambition
  263. E5.27 Hormizd’s Captain Is Slain
  264. E6.5 Khosrow and Bahram Parley
  265. E6.36 Kharrad’s Mission to the Khan
  266. E7.10 Shiruyeh Is Released
  267. E8.2 Khosrow Parviz Answers Shiruyeh

Family

Zalson of Sahm
═
Rudabehdaughter of Mehrab
Zavarehbrother
RostamTahamtan · Piltan
Shaghadhalf-brother, by a serving maid
wives
Tahminehof Samangan
Shahr-Banusister of Giv
Sohrabby Tahmineh
Faramarz
Banu Gashaspwed to Giv
Parents
Zal, Rudabeh
Siblings
Shaghad, Zavareh
Children
Sohrab, Faramarz, Banu Gashasp
Volume I · Plate VIIThe House of Sahmthe Pahlevans of Nimruz · A7–B14Volume II · Plate VIIIThe House of Sahmthe end of the Pahlevans of Nimruz · C8–D1

On the maps

Story maps that show Rostam or tell a part of the story that names Rostam.
A9.5Rostam Proudly Writes His FatherB2.4Rostam Fetches Kay Qobad from the Alborz; Turan Driven Back over the JihunB3.4The Peace of the JihunB4.4–B5The Two Roads to Mazandaran and the Seven Labors of RostamB5.10–B5.11Kavus’s Mazandaran Campaign and the Return to IranB6.9Kavus’s Flight to the Sky and His FallB7.1–B7.4The Frontier Hunt and the Clash of the Seven ChampionsB8.2–B8.3Rostam’s Stray Hunt and the City of Samangan

Where he appears

Named mentions by book, from the Universe Registry, the index behind this site. Titles and epithets are not counted.
A9The Birth and Early Feats of Rostam; Manuchehr’s Closing Counsel50B2Garshasp and the Transition to Kayanian Kingship33B3Kay Qobad17B4The War with Mazandaran6B5The Seven Labors of Rostam82B6The Folly of Kay Kavus28B7The Fight of the Seven Warriors31B8The Tragedy of Rostam & Sohrab154B9The Story of Siavash53B10Vengeance for Siavash and the Retrieval of Kay Khosrow71B11Kay Khosrow’s Kingship21B12Forood and the Snowstorm Campaign2B13Mount Hamavan and the Kamus Campaign91B14The Great Battle with the Khan of Chin173C1Rostam and the Div Akvan38C2The Tale of Bijan and Manijeh105C3The Battle of the Twelve Rukhs13C4The Final Afrasiab Wars and the Disappearance of Kay Khosrow72C5Lohrasp2C6Goshtasb, Zardosht, and the War with Arjasp5C7Esfandiyar’s Seven Stages and the Ruyin Dezh1C8The Tragedy of Rostam and Esfandiyar162C9Rostam and Shaghad33D1The Reign of Bahman, Son of Esfandiyar11E5Hormizd, Son of Anooshirvan6E6Khosrow Parviz3E7The Story of Khosrow Parviz and Shirin1E8Shiruyeh’s Coup and the End of the Great Reign1

Books with Rostam

The complete translationThe Shahnameh, Volumes I–IIIRostam from his birth (Volume I) to his death at Kabul (Volume II)
One volumeThe Shahnameh, abridgedFor new readers
Small bookThe Best Insults in the ShahnamehRostam gives and takes many of them
Small bookThe Heraldry of the ShahnamehThe banners of the Pahlevans

More in the Glossary, all the characters and the Art.