Full Name: Mohammad-Ali Eslami Nodoushan Date of Birth: February 23, 1925 Place of Birth: Nodoushan, Yazd, Iran Date of Death: May 16, 2022 (aged 97) Occupation: Writer, Literary Critic, Researcher, University Professor, Poet, Translator

Early Life and Education Mohammad-Ali Eslami Nodoushan was born in the village of Nodoushan, Yazd, Iran. His early education was rooted in traditional Islamic teachings and Persian literature. He later pursued higher education in Tehran, where he graduated with a degree in Law from the University of Tehran. Following this, he continued his studies in France, earning a doctorate in Comparative Law. His exposure to Western literature and philosophy during this period had a significant impact on his literary and academic career.

Literary and Academic Career Eslami Nodoushan is regarded as one of Iran's most prominent contemporary literary critics, authors, and thinkers. His work spanned multiple disciplines, including Persian literature, comparative literature, and cultural studies. He served as a professor of literature at the University of Tehran and other academic institutions, where he educated generations of students on Persian literary classics, modern literature, and critical thinking. His deep analysis of Persian literary masterpieces such as Shahnameh by Ferdowsi and Gulistan by Saadi played a crucial role in modern interpretations of these works. He also established and edited the cultural magazine "Hasti" (Existence), which became a significant platform for the discussion of Persian literature, culture, and philosophy.

Themes and Contributions Eslami Nodoushan's works focused on reviving and reinterpreting Persian classics, promoting national identity, and exploring the philosophical and cultural dimensions of literature. He believed that Persian literature, especially Ferdowsi's Shahnameh, held essential lessons for contemporary Iranian society. He emphasized the ethical, humanistic, and existential dimensions of these classical works. His interpretations of Persian epics, particularly his analysis of the character Rostam in Shahnameh, revealed deeper ethical and philosophical messages in Ferdowsi's work. He viewed Persian literature as a tool for moral education and self-awareness. His works also bridged Eastern and Western literary traditions, drawing comparisons between Iranian classics and global masterpieces.

Notable Works Some of Eslami Nodoushan's most influential works include: "The Story of Stories" (Dastan-e Dastan-ha): A detailed analysis and interpretation of Ferdowsi's Shahnameh, focusing on the moral and philosophical dimensions of the text. "From Coast to Coast" (Az Saheli be Saheli): A collection of essays on literature, philosophy, and culture. "With the Wind" (Ba Baad Hamraah): A reflection on Iranian culture and literature in the context of modernity and global change. "The Garden of Dreams" (Bagh-e Khaab-ha): An exploration of Persian poetry and its influence on Iranian culture and philosophy. "Journey in a Night of Fog" (Safar dar Shab-e Meh Alood): A philosophical work that reflects on the complexities of human existence. His contributions were not limited to literature. He wrote extensively on social and cultural issues in Iran, emphasizing the importance of national identity and the moral lessons embedded in Persian classics.

Awards and Honors Although Eslami Nodoushan's work was widely recognized in the field of Persian literature and cultural studies, he was not known for seeking formal awards or titles. Instead, his influence was seen in the respect he earned from the academic community and the general public.

Death and Commemoration Mohammad-Ali Eslami Nodoushan passed away on May 16, 2022, at the age of 97. His death was widely mourned by the Iranian academic and literary community, who praised his lifelong contributions to Persian literature, philosophy, and education. His legacy continues through his students, his published works, and the lasting impact of his philosophical reflections on Persian literature.

Legacy in Iranian Culture Eslami Nodoushan is remembered as a bridge between classical and modern Iranian thought. He devoted his life to exploring, preserving, and revitalizing Persian cultural and literary heritage. His works remain essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the philosophical, ethical, and cultural dimensions of Persian literature.