The first part of the Shahnameh focuses on several generations of legendary kings and their conflict with the forces of evil. But during the reign of the king Manuchehr, its heroes – the king’s various commanders – leave the background, begin to play a larger role, and are the stars of their own stories.
This episode (77) focuses on Sam, loyal ruler of the region of Sistan and a powerful warrior. I use other sources, like the Samnameh, to introduce Sam and share some of his exploits. Then I move to the Shahnameh to share the story of his son Zal’s birth.