Epic Heroes Compared: Rostam, Achilles, and Arjuna

Across cultures and centuries, epic poetry has preserved the larger-than-life figures who embody the ideals, conflicts, and spiritual yearnings of their civilizations. In Iran, Greece, and India, three such heroes stand out: Rostam of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh, Achilles of Homer’s Iliad, and Arjuna of Vyasa’s Mahabharata. Though separated by geography and worldview, these warriors share fascinating similarities—and striking contrasts.

Let’s explore how these legendary figures reflect the values of their cultures, and what makes each of them an enduring symbol of heroism.

1. Rostam: The Loyal Champion of Persia

Source: Shahnameh (Book of Kings) by Ferdowsi
Role: Defender of the Iranian throne and nation
Core Traits: Strength, loyalty, honor, fatalism

Rostam, the mighty paladin of the Persian Shahnameh, is a hero of unmatched physical prowess and battlefield courage. Mounted on his famed steed Rakhsh, he single-handedly defeats dragons, demons, and entire armies. But his greatness lies not just in combat—it is in his loyalty to the crown, even when it costs him personally.

Tragically, this same loyalty leads to heartbreak. In the tale of Sohrab, Rostam unknowingly kills his own son in battle, a moment that reflects the Shahnameh’s deep concern with fate, miscommunication, and the tragic cost of honor-bound duty.

Key Themes:

• The tension between individual grief and national loyalty

• The burden of fate and irreversible choices

• Heroism tied to self-restraint and duty

2. Achilles: The Wrathful Hero of Greece

Source: Iliad by Homer
Role: Supreme Greek warrior at Troy
Core Traits: Pride, glory, rage, …