Abstract

The first reading of seven exploits of Rostam and Esfandyar, which are both examples of rebirth archetype, seems to show that these two sections of Shahname are completely different, except in third exploit (fight with dragon) and fourth exploit (fight with witch). But the analysis of symbolic concepts of the exploits of the two mythical heroes of Shahname reveals something else. Although the surface structure of these two travels with seven symbolic levels is different, their deep structure is the same. The study of symbols of these exploits reveals the mysterious and symbolic presence of develish powers behind unconscious levels. These powers, in the form of lion, wolf, dragon, witch, demon etc, force Rostam and Esfandyar into hard but inevitable struggles. It is only through confrontation with these devils and destroying them that reaching to the innermost level of unconscious, that is the self, is possible. At the end of this symbolic travel, the fourth dimension of unconscious is added to the three dimensions with the help of anima and the perfection of the two heroes is achieved.