Volume One of Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh opens with the Prelude, or Moghaddameh, the Persian interpretation of the creation of the universe, the earth, and all living beings. The poet reveals how he acquired the source materials for his epic composition. The mythical portion includes the three kings of the Pishdaadian Dynasty: Kiumars, Hooshang, and Tahmures, followed by Jamsheed, Fereydoon, Manoochehr, and the Kianian rulers, ending with Kay Kaavoos’s rise to power. We meet such legendary warrior heroes as Saam and Zaal, and we learn of the powerful romance between Zaal and Rudaabeh, their marriage, and the unusual birth of their son Rostam, one of the principal protagonists. He is a hero of immeasurable strength and a staunch defender of king, throne, and crown. His bravery is put to the test in the Seven Stages of his Quest as he travels to free the King of Iran from captivity in Mazandaran. Afraasiyaab, King of Tooran-Zamin, relentlessly challenges the rulers of Iran, hoping to capture the throne. His counterpart, Kay Kaavoos, restlessly seeks the thrill of new adventures, such as flying toward the sun and subjugating neighboring rulers. The first volume concludes with the tragic battle of Rostam with his son Sohraab.