Gorgin (Shahnameh)

Gorgin is a prominent character in Ferdowsi's epic poem, the Shahnameh (The Book of Kings). He is generally depicted as a complex and often controversial figure, known for his bravery, cunning, and sometimes, his moments of cowardice and questionable judgment.

Gorgin Milad is often associated with the reign of Kay Khosrow, and he serves as a warrior and advisor to the king. He is frequently involved in key battles and campaigns against Turan, the historical enemy of Persia.

One of the most famous episodes involving Gorgin is his role in the tragic tale of Sohrab and Rostam. Gorgin, serving as a guide, fails to inform Rostam that the young warrior he is about to face in single combat is his own son, Sohrab. This omission, whether intentional or due to lack of knowledge (depending on different interpretations of the text), leads to the accidental killing of Sohrab by Rostam and highlights a significant moral dilemma within the epic. Gorgin's actions in this episode are often interpreted as evidence of his flawed character and capacity for deceit.

Throughout the Shahnameh, Gorgin's character undergoes various transformations. He is sometimes portrayed as a loyal and capable commander, while at other times, he is depicted as being motivated by self-preservation and fear. This inconsistency in his portrayal makes him a fascinating and memorable character in the Persian epic tradition. His narrative arc explores themes of loyalty, responsibility, and the consequences of one's actions in a world of war and political intrigue. While not always a heroic figure in the traditional sense, Gorgin plays a vital role in the larger narrative of the Shahnameh.