Sohrab and Rustum: Analysis of Major Characters
"Sohrab and Rustum" centers on the tragic relationship between Sohrab, a young and mighty warrior of the Tartar army, and Rustum, his father and a legendary Persian champion. Sohrab, unaware of his father's identity, seeks to prove his strength and gain Rustum's attention by challenging the Persian army to a duel. The narrative builds towards their fateful encounter, where Rustum, not knowing he is facing his own son, mortally wounds Sohrab. This moment of recognition occurs too late, leading to profound grief and remorse for Rustum as he learns the truth about their connection. The story explores themes of fate, identity, and the devastating consequences of conflict, highlighting the complexities of familial bonds against the backdrop of war. Additionally, characters like Peran-Wisa, the Tartar commander, and Ferood, the leader of the Persians, add depth to the unfolding drama. The tale serves as a poignant reflection on the interplay of personal and political struggles, emphasizing the tragedy inherent in their destinies.
Sohrab and Rustum: Analysis of Major Characters
Author: Matthew Arnold
First published: 1853
Genre: Poetry
Locale: Western Asia, on the banks of the Oxus River
Plot: Historical
Time: Remote antiquity
Sohrab (SOH-rahb), the champion of the Tartar army. Little more than a boy but the mightiest warrior of the Tartar hosts, Sohrab, restless and dissatisfied, seeks Rustum, a Persian, the father he has never seen. Hoping that his fame will reach his father's ears, he asks Peran-Wisa to challenge the Persians to a single combat, with each side choosing a champion for the duel. Sohrab, the Tartar, faces Rustum, the Persian, on the field of battle, and Sohrab is transfixed by Rustum's spear. Before Sohrab dies, father and son become known to each other.
Rustum (REWS-tuhm), a Persian chieftain and champion of the Persian army. Meeting the challenge of the Tartars for a duel between a chosen warrior from each side, Rustum, unknowingly, faces his son, Sohrab. He transfixes and mortally wounds the youthful champion with his spear. As the victim's life ebbs away, Rustum learns the identity of his son. In an agony of grief and remorse, he promises to bear Sohrab's body to the palace of his fathers.
Peran-Wisa, the commander of the Tartar army.
Ferood, the leader of the Persians.
Gudurz, a Persian chieftain.
Zal, Sohrab's grandfather.