The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam & Six Plays of Calderon, translated by Edward Fitzgerald

“The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam,” a collection of quatrains by the Persian poet Omar Khayyam, gained significant acclaim in the West largely due to Fitzgerald’s translation. First published in 1859, Fitzgerald’s version is not a literal translation but rather a reimagining that captures the spirit and philosophical depth of Khayyam’s poetry. The poems reflect on themes such as mortality, joy, and the fleeting nature of life, resonating deeply with Victorian-era readers and continuing to be celebrated for their lyrical beauty and existential musings.

In contrast, “Six Plays of Calderon” presents the works of Pedro Calderón de la Barca, a prominent figure of the Spanish Golden Age of literature. Calderón’s plays are known for their intricate plots, philosophical depth, and exploration of themes like honor, justice, and divine providence. Fitzgerald’s translation of these plays, although less famous than his work on “The Rubaiyat,” is significant for bringing the complex and ornate style of Calderón’s baroque drama to an English-speaking audience. These translations are noted for their effort to maintain the poetic and dramatic quality of the original Spanish texts, making them accessible while preserving their artistic integrity.

Together, these works highlight Fitzgerald’s contribution to the cross-cultural literary exchange and showcase his ability to navigate and interpret the poetic traditions of vastly different cultures. His translations not only provided Western readers with a window into Persian and Spanish literature but also enriched the English literary landscape with their profound and poetic insights.