Story Summary
Discover The Knight in the Panther's Skin, Georgia's national epic. Follow Avtandil and Tariel on a legendary quest of friendship and love to rescue a princess.
In the kingdom of Arabia, King Rostevan and his general, the brave Avtandil, encountered a mysterious knight weeping by a stream, clad in a panther's skin. When the king's messengers approached, the stranger vanished like a phantom. Determined to find him, Avtandil journeyed for years until he discovered the knight, Tariel, in a remote cave. Tariel revealed a tragic tale: he was an Indian prince who had fallen in love with Princess Nestan-Darejan. After a series of misfortunes and a forced marriage arrangement he resisted, Nestan was spirited away by the magical Kadjis to an impenetrable fortress. Avtandil, moved by Tariel’s grief, swore an oath of brotherhood. Alongside a third hero, the seafaring Fridon, the knights combined their strength and wisdom. Through tactical brilliance and sheer courage, they stormed the Fortress of Kadjeti, defeated the sorcerers, and rescued Nestan-Darejan. The heroes returned to their respective kingdoms, proving that through unyielding friendship and the pursuit of justice, light inevitably conquers darkness.
The Moral
True friendship is a sacred bond that empowers us to overcome the impossible, and selfless love is the highest virtue a human can possess.
“Whatever you give is yours; whatever you keep is lost.”
Fun Fact
For centuries, a copy of 'The Knight in the Panther's Skin' was traditionally included in the dowry of every Georgian bride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of The Knight in the Panther's Skin?
The moral emphasizes that loyal friendship and selfless love are the most powerful forces in the world. It teaches that through perseverance and unity, even the most daunting obstacles and evil forces can be defeated.
Who wrote The Knight in the Panther's Skin?
It was written in the 12th century by Shota Rustaveli, the greatest poet of the Georgian Golden Age. He dedicated the epic to Queen Tamar, who ruled Georgia at the time.
What does the panther skin symbolize?
The panther skin represents Tariel's wild, untamable grief and his fierce, heroic nature. It also symbolizes his strength and his status as an outsider who has retreated from civilization due to his internal pain.
Is The Knight in the Panther's Skin based on a true story?
While the characters and specific events are fictional, the poem reflects the cultural values, chivalric codes, and political atmosphere of 12th-century Georgia under Queen Tamar's reign.
Why is this story important to Georgian culture?
It is considered the national epic of Georgia and is a foundational piece of their literature. For centuries, it served as a moral guide and was so revered that many Georgians knew the entire poem by heart.
How does the story end for the heroes?
The story ends with a triple victory: the heroes rescue Nestan-Darejan, they return home to marry their respective loves, and they rule their kingdoms with justice, wisdom, and eternal friendship.