THE HUMANISTIC AND MORAL VALUES IN SAADI SHIRAZI’S “GULISTAN”

Abstract

This thesis examines the humanistic and moral values reflected in Saadi Shirazi’s Gulistan, one of the most influential works of classical Persian literature. Saadi addresses such fundamental human values as justice, compassion, generosity, humility, knowledge, honesty, and social responsibility through short narratives, reflections, and poetic expressions. The moral significance of Gulistan is not limited to the historical context in which it was written. Many of its ideas concern universal aspects of human behaviour and interpersonal relationships. Saadi frequently presents moral principles through concrete situations and encounters between different social groups, which makes his work both literary and educational. The thesis focuses on the humanistic dimension of Saadi’s worldview and considers how the moral lessons of Gulistan can contribute to contemporary discussions of ethical education, personal development, and human relationships.