Ideal society in Nizami Ganjavi's Iskandarname and Thomas More's Utopia

The conception of an ideal society has been one of the central themes of literature throughout history across different cultures and languages. Originating in Plato's Republic (375 B.C.) in the fourth century B.C., the idea of an ideal society evolved in various genres and styles, such as poetry or prose. Representative of Western literature, English philosopher Sir Thomas More's Utopia (1516), shaped by European fifteenth century historical context for instance has been considered as a significant contribution to utopian literature. Muslim philosopher Abu Nasr Al-Farabi (870-950), who harmonized Plato's ideal city concepts with Islamic doctrines became an important text in eastern utopian literary tradition. Azerbaijani philosopher Nizami Ganjavi, one of the earlier examples of utopian concept from the twelfth century, also adopted this framework of ideal society in his poem Iskandarname (1194 or 1196-1202). This thesis compares eastern and western utopian traditions as represented by Thomas More's Utopia and Nizami Ganjavi's Iskandarname. Focusing on both works' conceptions of the individual and daily life, economy and work, religion and freedom as well as governance and justice systems. Iskandarname and Utopia emphasize the importance of nature, animals, and human relationships in society, highlighting the significance of bodily care and healthy eating habits. They contrast barbaric and civilized societies, emphasizing the need for harmony and peace. They believe in afterlife, divine power, and gratitude for God's favour. Both societies evolved into prosperous cities through hard work, with disobedience seen as misbehaviour and expulsion as punishment. However, there are differences in ideologies and cultural specifics. Nizami's ideal city lacks class distinction, while More's Utopia mentions slaves and a governance system. Iskandarname dreams of peace and worshipping God, while Utopia focuses more on societal routines and a large group of idle priests, religious men, and wealthy noblemen. Despite these differences, both works highlight the importance of nature, animals, and human relationships in society. By comparing and contrasting, and generating the similarities and differences between Iskandarname and Utopia, the research aims to rethink, reassess, and acknowledge the diverse ideals held by nearly every culture. Iskandarname and Utopia provides an opportunity to see variations and parallels in the concept of the perfect society over time. The thesis aims to determine that, Ganjavi's ideal society is similar to More's, emphasizing the connection established with nature and the value of animals in society. Both works are utopian, but Iskandarname is more idealized, transcending equality for equity, while More's Utopia is based on equality.