Two Persian texts from the Qajar Period on the Russo-Japanese War: A comparative analysis of Bahr al-Fawa'id and Mikadonamah

Document Type : Original

Author

Department of East Asian Languages and Literatures, Faculty of Foreign Languages and Literatures, University of Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Previous studies on Iranian perspectives regarding the Russia-Japan War have highlighted works written by Qajar-era Iranians in support of Japan. This article, by comparing two Persian texts from the Qajar period, first aims to illustrate the diversity and divergence of Persian-language viewpoints on the Russia-Japan War; secondly, to contribute to a clearer understanding of how Iranians’ mental image of other nations was formed in the modern era. The author of Bahr al-Fawa’id supports Russia, arguing that Russia’s defeat in this war would be detrimental to Iran, citing economic, cultural, and political reasons. He emphasizes the role of Britain and other Western powers in instigating and prolonging this war, ultimately leading to Russia’s defeat. From his perspective, the best way to strengthen the nation is through popular support for the reigning monarch. In contrast, the author of Mikadonameh, a figure associated with the Constitutional Movement, views the Russia-Japan War through the lens of constitutionalism. He sees Russia as Iran’s historic enemy and considers Britain the ideal model for the world, believing that national strength can only be achieved through the establishment of a constitutional government and the promotion of knowledge and justice. In summary, the authors of both works hold extreme and opposing views in their support of contemporary powers and adopt entirely conflicting stances on the Russia-Japan War and its implications for Iran.

Keywords

Main Subjects

حوزة موضوعی: ایران، روسیه و ژاپن

Scope: Iran, Russo-Japanese War

References

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Journal of Countries Studies
Volume 3, Issue 2
2025
Pages 235-263

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History

  • Receive Date: 10 November 2024
  • Revise Date: 25 November 2024
  • Accept Date: 26 November 2024

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