Armenian Literature: Comprising Poetry, Drama, Folk-lore and Classic Traditions; Translated into English for the First Time

A freshly translated anthology brings the rich tapestry of early Armenian voice to English listeners for the first time. Guided by a scholarly introduction, the volume surveys the surviving fragments of poetry, drama, and folk‑lore that survived the nation’s early Christian transformation. It reveals how the ancient bardic traditions, once threatened by ecclesiastical suppression, linger in the verses celebrating festivals, royal unions, and communal rites.

The collection offers vivid excerpts of popular poetry and legendary tales that echo the crossroads of Asian and European cultures. Among them is the lively saga of David of Sassun, a heroic figure whose exploits blend local myth with echoes of Persian, Chaldean, and Grecian legends. Listeners will taste the humor, bravery, and humanity that have shaped Armenian storytelling, gaining a rare glimpse into a literary heritage that survived despite centuries of upheaval.