Analyzing The Formation of Narrative Structure in Khwaju Kermani’s Illustrated Poem “Gol and Nowruz” Based on Todorov’s Theory

Abstract

The present study aimed to analyze the formation of narrative structure in Khwaju Kermani’s illustrated poem Gol and Nowruz based on Todorov’s theory, and to analyze the syntactic logic and internal organization of this Persian romantic masnavi through Tzvetan Todorov’s structural narratology. According to Todorov, narrative consists of descriptive and active propositions that function through processes of disruption and restoration of equilibrium. Using a descriptive–analytical method and library resources, the research identifies Todorov’s five-stage model—initial equilibrium, disruption, disequilibrium, restoration, and new equilibrium—in the structure of Gol and Nowruz. The findings indicate that Khwaju’s narrative operates through causal relations among actions, states, and character attributes, with each phase of the story reflecting an inner transformation of the hero. Nowruz departs from his initial balance, faces trials and crises, and ultimately attains renewed harmony and awareness. The analysis of temporal and spatial dimensions also reveals a close correlation between the external narrative order and the internal evolution of the characters. Overall, the study concludes that Gol and Nowruz intuitively conforms to Todorov’s grammatical model of narrative and exemplifies the intersection of Persian poetic tradition and structuralist narrative theory.