Symbolic and Archetypal Analysis of the Myth of 'Houshang’s Battle with the Black Snake' in Ferdowsi's Shahnameh

Symbols and archetypes are the most important structural elements of myths in different societies. They also play a significant role in the Iranian mythology. One of the mythical narrations quoted in Shahnameh and includs symbols and archetypes is the myth of 'Houshang's Battle with the Black Snake'. Despite the importance of this mythical narrative, not much research has been done in this area. Assessing the mythical roots, symbols, and archetypes in this narrative could be accompanied by investigating many historical mysteries of ancient Iranians. The present study was carried out in a descriptive-analytical manner and based on library data. The purpose was to analyze the myth of 'Houshang’s Battle with the Black Snake' using symbols and archetypes. The results showed that the black snake burning the world in this myth was a symbol of evil, destruction, and eternal disorder, which was opposed to Houshang as the symbol of goodness, justice, order, and prosperity. The result of such battle was the discovery of a demonic snake and fire and a celebration that was directly related to the superiority of the snake and the discovery of fire. In this myth, archetypes, such as the battle between the good and evil, the battle of the hero with snakes and dragons, the fire and drift of demons, celebrations, etc., could be observed and evaluated.