An analysis of the symbol of CAVE in Haft Peikar

Nezami is one of the most significant symbolist figures in Persian literature. Among his works Haft Paykar, a complex symbol and allegory of spiritual and moral growth, is regarded as his masterpiece. This article has addressed Haft Paykar’s symbolism appearing in a pervasive image; that is, the image of the cave. The research’s question is how the symbol of the cave is related to the main theme of the work. Other imageries such as hunt, dragon, treasure and so on, which are related to cave, are analyzed. It can be concluded that Nezami has created a special work with organic unity.