the WORLD Issue #7

Heal the world Make it a better place For you and for me, and the entire human race There are people dying If you care enough for the living Make a better place for you and for me Michael Jackson

the WORLD Issue No. 7

by Global Youth

Goodwill Ambassadors for 11 Foreign Embassies to the Republic of Korea

SPECIAL THANKS TO The Embassy of Azerbaijan, the Embassy of Bangladesh, the Embassy of Côte d'Ivoire, the Embassy of Czech Republic, the Embassy of Ecuador, the Embassy of Egypt, the Embassy of Gabon, the Embassy of Mexico, the Embassy of Nepal, the Embassy of Nicaragua, and the Embassy of Zambia to the Republic of Korea for your continuous support to this project.

All of your support is a stepping stone towards peace and prosperity for the global community.

Contents Articles ........................................................................................... 4-67 written by Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for 11 Foreign Embassies to the Republic of Korea

Reflection from visiting the Embassy of Mexico to Seoul on December 23, 2021 by participating goodwil ambassadors ............................. 68-69 The 51st Anniversary of the Independence and National Day of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh ........................................................................ 70 Korean translated version of The Life and Works of Nizami Ganjavi by 6 goodwill ambassadors .......................................................................... 71-122 The List of Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors

Articles

written by Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for 11 Foreign Embassies to the Republic of Korea

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Mexican Cuisine: The One Recognized by the UNESCO

by Yeheun Kim

Mexico, a country located south of the United States in North America, is well-known for its rich cultural heritage, varying from music, food, festivals to languages. Among them, its complex gastronomy highlights Mexican culture and history.

For over 10,000 years of history, Mexicans have developed their own unique recipes reflecting their tradition, flavor, and diversity. Long before the Spanish colonization of the Americas, the ancient Mesoamericans, including the Aztecs and the Mayans, based their cuisine largely on the domestication of corn, which was their main source of diet. Gradually, Mesoamericans added other vegetables, including beans, squashes, and zucchini, into their local cuisine. Soon, upon the rise of Spanish colonization of the Americas in the 15th century, the foreign food products and recipes from Europe, mainly from Spain, combined with the Mesoamerican diet, together with giving rise to the culinary fusion and the rich tradition of Mexican cuisine.

Each Mexican region boasts diversity in food and culinary traditions. However, most are based on corn, beans, and chilies in a variety of forms, driven from its ancient Mesoamerican diet. Some of the popular Mexican dishes that comprise its national cuisine include enchiladas, quesadillas, tacos, and pozole.

Its cuisine is widely enjoyed by people around the world, as one can see in fast food chains based on Mexican food, such as Taco Bell and Chipotle. Although they don’t represent the unique and diverse tastes of original Mexican cookery, they greatly helped popularize Mexican culture to a variety of people around the globe.

Moreover, as its richness of cuisine drew the attention of culinary experts around the world, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) declared the Mexican cuisine the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in November 2010, marking the first-ever national cuisine to be selected on the list of UNESCO ICHH. Upon its declaration, it wrote, “traditional Mexican cuisine is a comprehensive cultural model comprising farming, ritual practices, age-old skills, culinary techniques, and ancestral community customs and manners. Its knowledge and techniques express community identity, reinforce social bonds, and build stronger local, regional and national identities.”

Even today, Mexican cuisine is constantly developing to form a new variety of culinary traditions, influenced by other cultural food and recipes from around the world, continually enhancing the richness of global culinary fusion in the 21st century.

References: https://globalvoices.org/2010/10/07/mexican-cuisine-declared-intangible-heritage-of-humanity-by-unesco/#:~:text=A%20little%20over%20 a%20month,is%20finally%20receiving%20its%20due

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

The John Lennon Wall in Prague

by Eojin Park 1. "What is the john lennon wall?"

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Located in the district Mala Strana, opposite the French Embassy, John Lennon Wall is a famous tourist destination and a symbol of democracy.

It is also said to be the Prague equivalent of Berlin Wall. The graffiti on the walls has changed constantly over the years and includes designs inspired by John Lennon, lyrics from Beatles songs and references to localand global issues.

2. "The history of the john lennon wall" ■ December 8th, 1980: Shortly after John Lennon’s assassination, an anonymous artist painted a tribute to the singersongwriter in the form of a large painting of Lennon’s face along with Beatles lyrics on the then-blank wall.

■ Prague’s police were unable to effectively prohibit the stream of graffiti that followed the first decoration.

■ At first, most of the graffiti included antiCommunist messages until the Velvet Revolution on November 17th, 1989(a nonviolent revolution in Czechoslovakia that led to the overthrowing of the communist government).

■ A group of students whitewashed the wall as an artistic statement and symbol of renewal on November 17th, 2014.

■ Although the original image of John Lennon’s face no longer exists, new graffiti resurfaced immediately.

■ Now, the wall is a worldwide symbol of peace and the only place in the city of Prague where graffiti is legal.

■ Selected artists/street artists are still allowed to paint on the wall’s surface to prevent mass vandalism.

■ The wall is still ever-changing and is a prime example of community-generated protest art.

4. "an inspiration during modern times" The original Lennon wall has sparked other colorful mosaics WORLDWIDE. ■ During the 2014 Umbrella Movement protests of Hong Kong, an outdoor staircase in the city was covered with handwritten sticky notes supporting the protest.

■ In 2019, as anti-government protests became more widespread, more than 100 Lennon Walls appeared spontaneously, with sticky notes covering buildings, storefronts, and walkways.

■ In November 2016, after Donald Trump’s presidential win, the residents of New York City added sticky notes to a pedestrian tunnel to create a similar wall and a space for collective grieving.

■ There were also temporary Lennon Walls in Seattle, San Francisco, and New York supporting Hong Kong protestors.

■ In Tokyo, some protesters even became human Lennon Walls!

The significance of the original John Lennon Wall is still visible and felt today, mainly through the influence it has had on protests and mass movements supporting democracy and liberation from oppression. Meanwhile, the endurance of the first wall in Prague remains a testament to the survival of freedom, even we find ourselves in times of trouble.

3. "What does the john lennon wall represent?"

While it has become a tourist attraction, it also holds great importance to the citizens of Prague.

Although it was first a symbolic burial site for John Lennon, the John Lennon Wall has evolved to signify free speech and the spirit of Czech youth. It also continues to have a major impact on acts of peaceful protest and activism globally.

Image credit: Wikipedia

References: "The Myths And Facts Of The John Lennon Wall In Prague | Corinthia Prague | Destination Guides". Corinthia, 2021, https://www.corinthia.com/prague/discover-prague/the-myths-and-facts-of-the-john-lennon-wall-in-prague/. Accessed 11 Aug 2021.

"Lennon Walls' Herald A Sticky-Note Revolution In Hong Kong". The Conversation, 2020, https://theconversation.com/lennon-walls-herald-a-sticky-note-revolution-in-hong-kong-129740. Accessed 11 Aug 2021.

"John Lennon Wall | Prague, Czech Republic Attractions". Lonely Planet, 2021, https://www.lonelyplanet.com/czech-republic/prague/attractions/john-lennon-wall/a/poi-sig/401339/358835. Accessed 11 Aug 2021.

"Prague's Famous John Lennon Wall: Is It Over, Or Reborn?". Smithsonian Magazine, 2014, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/pragues-famous-john-lennon-wall-it-over-or-just-reborn-180953415/. Accessed 11 Aug 2021.

"Prague’S Iconic Lennon Wall Undergoes Extensive Reconstruction - Kafkadesk". Kafkadesk - Ultra-Local News From Central Europe, 2019, https://kafkadesk.org/2019/10/17/pragues-iconic-lennon-wall-undergoes-extensive-reconstruction/. Accessed 11 Aug 2021.

"The Meaning Behind The John Lennon Wall - Florenceforfun Tours And Travel". Florenceforfun Tours And Travel, 2017, https://www.florenceforfun.com/bucket-list/the-meaning-behind-the-john-lennon-wall/. Accessed 11 Aug 2021.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Bangladesh´s Normal Life

by Hyunju Jung

Many countries have their own culture of clothes, food, and history. Bangladesh also has its life based on its religion and history. I’m going to talk about the common culture of Bangladesh.

First, their food. Because Bangladesh believes in Islam, they cannot eat pork. Instead, they often eat Tolkari. Tolkari is like curry because some Bangladeshis were in India, so their food is similar to Indian food. They use many ingredients, more than a thousand kinds of elements. Also, Bangladesh is close to the sea, where they eat fish a lot. They use their right hands when they eat food but never use their left hands.

Second, their living. They have a close relationship with India. They use the Bengali language, and it is the official language of the Indian state of West Bengal. Bangladesh’s climate is one of the hottest countries in the world. They make the house with the sand or the trees called Ghor. Many people are farming for their job. 62% of citizens are farming. Their total rice production ranks 4th globally so we can see their farming production. However, sometimes people have trouble harvesting crops because of the rainy climate. Bangladesh’s environment is one of the hottest countries in the world.

I believe there are more cultures in Bangladesh, but their living is different based on their social background.

References: https://m.blog.naver.com/PostView.naver?isHttpsRedirect=true&blogId=ok7ok72&logNo=220344822962 https://www.sc.or.kr/news/storyView.do?NO=28994

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Role of the Catholic Church in Zambia’s Development

by Chae A Lee Religion in Zambia is very diverse, with a high percentage of Christians (95.5% of the population), smaller groups of Muslims (2.7%), and other indigenous faiths that can be combined with Christianity.

Given a large number of Christians in the country, it is important to ask why and how Christianity has gained popularity in Zambia and what various factors have contributed to the spread of this religion.

Christianity found its roots in Northern Rhodesia (the old name of Zambia) sometime after the arrival of David Livingstone in the late 1800s. However, it was not after Livingstone’s death that numerous missionaries and religious figures began to settle in Zambia.

During the period under British rule, Zambians benefitted from the contributions the Catholic Church made to society. Some of the gifts of the Catholic Church are in the areas of education and health.

The Church established educational institutions and made education accessible to students of all ages. Students not only learned primary education but also understood the value and importance of freedom and independence. That is why it is often said that these educational centers became the birthplaces of Zambian (and African in general) nationalism. The Church also played a role in establishing health facilities and providing affordable health care to citizens.

In addition to education and health, the Church emphasized the importance of human dignity and social rights, especially when it came to racial recognition. The Church had the pastoral letters that contributed to liberation because they recognized and promoted the feeling of nationalism among Zambians. Furthermore, the bishops during this period called upon Zambians (and Africans) to respect people according to the teachings of St. Paul. In this belief, Zambians knew they had their rights to fight for and the realization of self-governance, which led to their political development in the mid-19th century.

Of course, it is undeniable that these missionaries had their fair share of intentions, but part of their mission was to uplift Zambians in certain aspects. The Church in Zambia was (and is) directly involved in the people's lives because it provided social services and awakened nationalistic sentiments that enabled Zambians to fight for their sovereignty.

Catholic church in Lusaka, Zambia

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Zambia_Lusaka_catholic_church_Krzysztof_B%C5%82a%C5%BCyca_2011_P01.jpg

References: https://journals.ukzn.ac.za/index.php/soa/article/view/405 https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/ZAMBIA-2019-INTERNATIONAL-RELIGIOUS-FREEDOM-REPORT.pdf

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

The Flag of Ecuador

by Yeokyung Jo

Image credit: Wikipedia

Ecuador's flag consists of two rows of the yellow top half and blue and red bottom.

In the center, there is an official Ecuadorian symbol. This symbol is taken from the flag of Gran Colombia. Because Ecuador was also a former constituent territory of Gran Colombia, the Ecuadorian flag is similar to the Colombian flag and the Venezuela flag. Ecuador's symbol mark is drawn in the middle of the horizontal stripe background consisting of three colors: yellow, blue, and red. Yellow means gold, agriculture, and natural resources, blue means sky and sea, and red means the blood of heroes who sacrificed for their country and freedom. Private and merchantable flags are used as a flag in the form of no marks.

References: https://ko.wikipedia.org/wiki/%EC%97%90%EC%BD%B0%EB%8F%84%EB%A5%B4%EC%9D%98_%EA%B5%AD%EA%B8%B0

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

역사상 가장 위대한 파라오 람세스 2세를 위해 지어진 신전, 아부 심벨

by Yun Kim 고대 이집트 문명의 높은 건축과 예술 수준을 보여주는 아부 심벨(Abu Simbel)은 오늘날 이집트에서 피라미드 다음으로 관광객 들이 많이 방문한 고대 유적지이다. 아부 심벨이 람세스 2세의 재위 기간(c. 1279 - c. 1213 BCE) 동안 건설 되었다는 것은 알 수 있지만, 현대 학자들의 일부가 람 세스 2세의 삶에 대해 다르게 해석하기 때문에 정확한 기간은 알려지지 않았다. 또한 아부 심벨은 믿기 힘든 신비한 역사를 가지고 있다. 아부 심벨은 본래 나일 강 인근의 사암 절벽에 조각되었지만, 1960년 대에 이집트 정부는 아스완 댐을 지었고, 유네스코와 이집트 정부가 댐 건설로 인해 물이 불어나 아부 심벨이 물에 잠길 수 있다는 위험성을 인지했다. 아부 심벨이 물에 잠기는 것을 막기 위해 이집트 정부와 유네스코는 신전을 해체해서 높은 지대로 옮겨 다시 조립하는 프로젝트를 계획했고, 50개국 이상이 이 프로젝트에 재정적 지원으로 도왔다. 국가들은 1963년에서 1968년까지 5년동안 과학자와 엔지니 어의 지원으로 원래 장소보다 200미터 높은 지대로 옮기는 데에 성공했다. 옮기는데 해체한 블록의 수는 약 16000개라고 한다. 또한 1979년, 아부 심벨은 유네스코 세계문화유산에 지정되었다. 신전의 입구에 앉아있는 4명의 석상은 모두 람세스 2세의 모습이다. 사진에는 잘 담기지 않지만, 실제로 가보면 20미터가 넘는 거상이 웅장하게 느껴진다고 한다. 왼쪽에서 두번째에 있는 석상은 상체부분이 훼손되었는데, 정확한 이유는 알 수 없지만 낙석이나 지진이 원인으로 예상된다고 한 다. 람세스 2세의 발 옆에는 그의 가족과 왕족들이 작게 조각되어있다. 또한 고대 이집트에서는 수학적인 질서를 건축물과 예술품에 적용시켰으며, 그 특징을 아부 심벨 신전의 내부에 대칭으로 세워져있는 거상들로부터 찾아볼 수 있다. 아부심벨 내부에는 세 개의 작은 방이 있는데, 그 중 중앙의 방은 파라오만 들어갈 수 있는 성소였다. 이집트는 매년 2월 22일과 10월 22일 일 년에 두 번씩 아부심벨축제를 연다. 그 이유는 매년 2월 22일과 10월 22일만 태양 빛 이 들어와 20분간 성소 내부를 환하게 비추는데, 놀랍게도 죽음과 어둠의 신 프타(맨 왼쪽 석상)에는 빛이 닿지 않는다. 당시 이집 트인들의 천문학 지식의 수준과 건축 기술이 뛰어났다는 것을 증명해준다.

Image credit: Wikipedia

References: https://www.britannica.com/place/Abu-Simbel https://www.worldhistory.org/Abu_Simbel/ https://www.planetware.com/nubia/abu-simbel-egy-asw-abusim.htm https://edu.rsc.org/resources/principles-of-egyptian-art/1622.article https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/18725376 https://edu.rsc.org/resources/principles-of-egyptian-art/1622.article https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/18725376

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

OKLO : NATURE'S NUCLEAR FISSION REACTOR

by Min Jung Seo

Nuclear reactor zones Sandstone

Sandstone

Uranium ore layer

Granite

The natural nuclear fission reactors in Oklo, Gabon (Image Credit: Wikipedia)

Natural nuclear fission reactor found in Gabon It was hypothesized in 1956 by Paul Kuroda that nuclear fissions may have been developed and operated thousands of years ago. 17 years later, a nuclear reactor was found in Gabon.

Underneath Gabon, lays a natural nuclear fission reactor composed of sandstone, granite, and uranium ore. Neither man-made nor constructed, the reactor was first found in the 1972 nuclear fuel-processing plant in France. 16 in total were found in the uranium mines at Olko. They are found to have details of how these reactors operated and preserved for 2 billion years and functioned till around 1 billion years ago. The Oklo Mines, as they are called today, are the only known natural nuclear fission reactor.

Economic benefits The Gabon reactor's average power output is about 100 kilowatts, meaning that it could power around 1,000 lightbulbs. By studying these Oklo mines, scientists are not only able to get an idea about the past, but also understand more about the process of nuclear reactions and use them to control the vast amount of nuclear problems we are facing today. One step further, the idea of using these nuclear reactors is much cheaper than coal and fuels.

The massive amount of research that is being held in Gabon for the nuclear reactors, and the microreactors the government and other private industries are planning to produce is estimated to have a huge impact on Gabon's economy.

References: Mervine, Evelyn. “Nature's Nuclear Reactors: The 2-Billion-Year-Old Natural Fission Reactors in Gabon, Western Africa.” Scientific American Blog Network, Scientific American, 13 July 2011, blogs.scientificamerican.com/guest-blog/natures-nuclear-reactors-the-2-billion-year-old-naturalfission-reactors-in-gabon-western-africa/., in a 1956 paper Paul Kuroda theorized the conditions under which nuclear fission could spontaneously develop and be sustained.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Religion in Azerbaijan

by Inha Jeon Azerbaijan is a unique Muslim nation on the west side of the Caspian Sea in the South Caucasus, which reinstated its self-government with the inheritance of the Soviet Union. Suddenly, this small country faced a notable resurgence of its copious identities regarding its religion. The vigorous Communist regime had suppressed their religious identities.

Islamic belief in Azerbaijan first spread in the mid-7th century A.D. This procedure has gone through multiple shifts throughout a long, abundant history, ultimately laying the base for the status quo.

Azerbaijan is a predominantly Muslim country, statistically showing Azerbaijani Muslims as 99% of the country´s population. This massive population of Muslims in Azerbaijan constitutes more than three-fifths of Shia and about one-third of Sunni. Members of the Russian Orthodox So when was Islam brought to Azerbaijan? It was in 639-693 when the southern part of the nation was vanquished by the Arabs. There are 2166 mosques in Azerbaijan, which shows just how much Islam has deeply rooted in the country and is taking a big part in diverse fields, such as cultural and political areas.

Azerbaijan is located at the convergence point of the political and cultural alliances of Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, which greatly impacts the country. In addition, Azerbaijan’s locality in the world of Islam is at a junction of, and adjacent to, a variety of Islamic identities: Iranian Shiite, Turkish, Russian, and Arabic. Influenced by surrounding countries, the country's identity has always been an issue, along with conflicts.

Indeed, the influence of surrounding nations should not be underestimated. Islamist movements in Azerbaijan may be divided into two groups: traditional and non-traditional. Researchers have also distinguished Islamic branches between “local Islam” and “imported Islam.

References: https://css.ethz.ch/content/dam/ethz/special-interest/gess/cis/center-for-securities-studies/pdfs/CAD-44-2-4.pdf https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islam_in_Azerbaijan

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

DISHES OF PRAGUE: AN EXPLORATION

by Eojin Park

A BRIEF HISTORY ■ ■

■

The Czech Republic holds an impressively wide range of dishes.

Some traditional meals are influenced by the surrounding regions of the country, including Hungary, Germany, Austria and Eastern Europe.

Traditional Czech cuisine recipes incorporate quality ingredients and rely on cooking techniques to cook food that can be preserved for a long time.

Carp

TRADITIONAL FOOD Moravský vrabec ■ Although the name means “Morovian sparrow”, this dish actually consists of pork.

■ Pork is marinated and then roasted, and is then served with sauerkraut(cabbage) and dumplings.

■ Where to find in Prague: almost any restaurant!

Carp ■ Imported from China in the Middle Ages, carp is the #1 fish in the country.

■ Carp schnitzel with potato salad is a classic Christmas Eve dish.

■ Varieties include peprenky(marinated carp) and kapri hranolkey(carp fries).

■ Where to find in Prague: Svíčková na smetaně ■ A classic dish eaten during weddings and Sunday lunches, Svíĭková consists of braised beef that has been marinated for hours and covered with vegetable sauce.

■ It is often served with lemon, cranberries and a sour cream sauce.

■ Where to find: Next Door restaurant(Prague), Na Pekarne(Cakovichy village)

Roast Duck ■ This dish is often eaten during Czech Sunday lunches with family.

■ There are different varieties, including a version where the duck is stuffed with Moravský vrabec dumplings and cabbages.

■ Where to find in Prague: Ossegg, The Blue Kulajda Duckling ■ Kulajda is a popular potato soup in the Czech Republic.

■ It also contains mushrooms, dill, vinegar and a poached egg on top.

■ Where to find in Prague: Café Imperial, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Uzené ■ Uzené refers to dishes made with smoked meat, usually pork joints, ribs and a variety of hams.

■ The dish is often served with juniper berries and peppers.

■ Uzené is eaten as appetizers or main courses with mashed potatoes, dumplings and peas.

■ Where to find: almost anywhere in central Prague

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

DESSERTS Buchty ■ Sweet yeast dough buns ■ Often eaten for breakfast or as a snack ■ Where to find them in Prague: EMA Espresso Bar, Alf & Bet, ESKA Kolache ■ Small round yeast dough treats with sweet fillings ■ Where to find in Prague: Café Jen, Cukrár Skál Trdelnik ■ A type of hollow pastry made by wrapping dough around a wooden/iron stick and baking it over fire/coal ■ Toppings include sugar, walnuts, cinnamon and ice cream.

■ Where to find in Prague: Open stalls in Old Town ■ Square and Wenceslas 5 Square

Roast Duck

Buchty

FUN FACT! ■ ■ ■ ■

Traditional Czech cuisine has a category called the “main sweet dish.”

These dishes are usually served after an appetizer or soup, and are often sweet, sizable, and warm.

An example(see image above) are fruit dumplings, which are often filled with fruit and served with melted butter and sugar.

Where to find them in Prague: Café Savoy, Krystal Bistro

MODERN CUISINE ■ ■ ■ ■

Even during the pandemic, Czech cuisine is gaining traction, especially due to the popularity of its desserts.

One viral dessert created by Olga Budnik is shaped in the form of the COVID-19 virus.

It consists of a chocolate ball dusted with cocoa butter with a pistachio filling.

The most notable characteristic of the dessert, it’s “spikes”, are made of white chocolate and dried raspberries.

Trdelnik

Czech cuisine carries a lot of cultural heritage and significance. With an enduring culinary history characterized by its filling meals, it is possible to learn (and taste) Czech culture through its meals.

References:

https://theculturetrip.com/europe/czech-republic/articles/10-traditional-czech-dishes-you-need-to-try/. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://www.tasteofprague.com/pragueblog/traditional-czech-food-in-prague-what-to-have-and-where-to-have-it. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://www.dailysabah.com/life/food/viral-dessert-prague-cafe-introduces-coronavirus-shaped-dessert. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://www.tasteatlas.com/uzene. Accessed 9 Aug 2021. https://www.adequatetravel.com/blog/why-prague-is-famous-for/. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/czech-republic/narratives/in-location/eating. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://www.itinari.com/trdelnik-the-czech-winter-delight-7icq. Accessed 9 Aug 2021. https://www.airtransat.com/experiencetransat/the-culinary-history-of-the-czech-republic-is-alive-and-well-in-prague/. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://www.britannica.com/place/Czech-Republic/Literature. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. https://beyondprague.wordpress.com/moravsky-vrabec-a-bird-in-name-only/. Accessed 9 Aug 2021. https://english.radio.cz/examining-czech-culinary-heritage-8686697. Accessed 8 Aug 2021. http://www.foodbycountry.com/Algeria-to-France/Czech-Republic.html. Accessed 8 Aug 2021

Image Credits: Wikipedia

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Free trade agreement between Korea and Mexico

by Hayoung Kong Relations between Mexico and Korea, trade relations between Korea and Mexico, and continuous development of bilateral economic cooperation relations between Mexico and Korea have been steadily strengthened since the official establishment of diplomatic relations in 1962.

The two countries have developed relationships in various fields based on the shared values of democracy and a free-market economy.

Korea in 2019. I quoted the Korea-Mexico FTA promotion brochure released by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mexico on the 2021-0410 page5.

The Korea-Mexican trade has continued to grow over the years, and the two countries have now developed into important trading partners for each other. Korea and Mexico both aim for free trade and open economies, Mexico has signed 13 FTAs (50 countries), and Korea has signed 16 FTAs (56 countries), but a bilateral FTA has not been signed between the two countries yet.

The main products Mexico exports to the world are automobiles, components, machinery, and electronicequipment, and these three main items account for about two-thirds of its total exports. However, if you look at Mexico's major exports to Korea, crude oil and other fuel are the most exported items, accounting for more than 40% of Korea's total exports, followed by other minerals and electronics. Korea has a comparative advantage in high-tech products, and Mexico has a comparative advantage in medium-sized products. Therefore, the conclusion of the FTA will contribute to the strengthening of trade and investment that have saved the strengths of both countries.

South Korea is Mexico's fifth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade growing more than five-fold in the past 20 years since 2000, bringing the total bilateral trade volume to more than $22.5 billion.

1. South Korea is Mexico's fifth-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade more than five-fold over the past 20 years from 2000, bringing the total bilateral trade to more than $22.5 billion.

I quoted the Korea-Mexico FTA promotion brochure released by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mexico 2021-04-10, page 4.

Korea is the second-largest Asian country investing in Mexico, and Korea's investment in Mexico has exceeded 7 billion dollars in total.

Mexico is recognized as a significant investment destination for Korean companies due to various factors such as geopolitical location. About 2,000 Korean companies have currently entered Mexico, creating 150,000 quality jobs.

The trade relationship between the two countries is growing by the day. In 2019, Korea became Mexico's fifth-largest trading partner, and Mexico became Korea's largest trading partner in Latin America. The fact that the two countries have reached these results even though they have not yet signed an FTA shows the enormous potential of bilateral trade.

2. Major trade goods exported from Korea to Mexico in 2019. I quoted the Korea-Mexico FTA promotion brochure released by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mexico on the 2021-0410 page5.

3. Major trade goods exported from Mexico to

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Korea is Mexico's fifth-largest trading partner, but trade with Korea accounts for 1.07% of Mexico's total exports/imports and 3.87% of imports, which still have a low share.

Image credit from Adobe Stock

The signing of the Korea-Mexico FTA will help to balance openness, as Korea's average tariff on imported items is higher than Mexico's average tariff.

Especially in the agricultural and livestock industry, the main item that Mexico exports to Korea is meat. If the FTA is signed between the two countries, Mexico is expected to increase its global exports in the agricultural sector, including avocado, various vegetables, and fruits. In addition, the Korea-Chile FTA, which took effect in April 2004, is expected to diversify trade items along with increasing trade volume, considering that the number of bilateral trade items has more than tripled.

Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Especially in the agricultural and livestock industry, the main item that Mexico exports to Korea is meat. If the FTA is signed between the two countries, Mexico is expected to increase its global exports in the agricultural sector, including avocado, various vegetables, and fruits. In addition, the Korea-Chile FTA, which took effect in April 2004, is expected to diversify trade items along with increasing trade volume, considering that the number of bilateral trade items has more than tripled.

4. FTA status that Korea has signed or is in progress with Latin American countries. I quoted the Korea-Mexico FTA promotion brochure released by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mexico on the 2021-04-10 page7.

Due to the uncertainty of the global economy today, both Mexico and Korea have a goal of diversifying foreign markets. Korea is a significant partner in Mexico's market diversification, and Mexico also plays a role in Korea. If Korea and Mexico sign a bilateral FTA, they can utilize their FTA network. In particular, Korea recently signed a Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) between 10 ASEAN countries and 5 AsiaPacific countries (Korea, Australia, China, Japan, and New Zealand). Just as Mexico is a hub for North America and South America in Korea, Korea will play a bridge role in Mexico's access to Asian markets, including China.

Mexico is recognized as a significant investment destination for Koreans due to various factors such as geopolitical location. Therefore, if a legal framework is established for investors, such as FTA, investment in Mexico and Korea will increase further. Also, since Korea has made significant progress in ICT, Mexico's ICT sector can be strengthened by boosting Korea's investment and promoting the growth of the software industry and related services through bilateral FTAs.

Korea is one of the best business environments in the world. Therefore, the Korea-Mexico FTA will provide endless opportunities for Mexican investors interested in Korea.

Korean companies operating in Mexico fulfill their corporate social responsibilities through various co-operations with Mexican society, including job creation. Let me introduce some representative cases among them.

1) Kia Motors Kia Motors, located in the state of Nuevo Leon, has produced about 300,000 cars every year since it began operations in May 2016. In addition, the company provides more than 10,000 jobs in the production complex with its suppliers. In addition to creating these jobs, the firm supports human resources training (education for young people) through various programs in industryacademic cooperation. In particular, through collaboration with the Monterrey Institute of Technology, training courses have been provided in Kia Motors for three years.

2) Samsung Electronics Samsung Electronics, the pioneer of Korea's investment in Mexico, started its expansion by building a television plant in Tijuana in 1988. In 2003, the company established a refrigerator and washing machine construction plant in Queretaro and made additional investments. Samsung Electronics is an active company in social contribution (corporate social responsibility) and therefore won the 'Distintivo ESR' for three consecutive years, an award given to the best social contribution company by CEMEFI AliARSE in Mexico. During the September 2017 earthquake in Mexico, 22 million pesos and 1,000 home appliances were donated to restore the damaged area. NGO 'Restore the Coral,' which protects coral, Mexico's leading environmental resource, is also working on a project to protect coral.

In the case of Mexico, Mexican companies such as Kidzania, Katcon, and Promax have entered Korea. Mexico's investment in Korea is relatively low compared to Korea's investment in Mexico.

Still, if a bilateral FTA is signed between the two countries, Korea will be a desirable destination for Mexican investors. For example, Korea's strategic position in Northeast Asia allows access to more than 60 cities with more than 500 million consumers.

Also, according to data from international organizations such as OECD and World Bank,

Image capture from https://www.samsung.com/mx/about-us/company-info/

References: The Korea-Mexico FTA promotion brochure released by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Mexico 2021-04-10.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

중남미시장 진출의 중요한 전략지; 에콰도르

by Kyung Min Kwon 우리나라가 중남미 국가들과 본격적으로 국제교류를 진행하기 위해서 는 에콰도르가 우선적으로 필요합니다.

1976년, 현대자동차의 포니 6대를 에콰도르에 수출한 것을 시작으로 우리나라 차의 해외수출이 시작되었고 같은 해에 이루어진 키토시 도로 포장공사 역시 대우건설의 첫 해외프로젝트였습니다 . 지난 10여년간 국내의 경제적 어려움과 IMF으로 인해 경제 침체기에 있었는데, 코로나19까지 터지면서 많은 피해를 얻고 있습니다. 하지만 이런 어려운 시기에도 발전할 계기를 만들 수 있지 않을까요? 에콰도르의 지리적 위치는 갈라파고스 제도를 포함하는 남아메리카 북 서부입니다. 또한 면적은 한반도의 약 1.3배 규모이면서 원유 매장량은 88억배럴(중남미 3위), 하루 원유 생산량은 54만배럴(중남미 5위)에 달하고 상당한 광물자원을 보유하고 있는 자원부국입니다. 하지만 그 자본의 가치를 높일 기술이 조금 부족합니다. 에콰도르 정부는 높은 경 제발전을 이루어낸 한국의 경험을 공유하고 한국기업이 진출하여 함께 성장하길 원하고 있습니다.

2022년 한국과 에콰도르는 수교 60주년이 됩니다. 그때까지 우린 서 로 양국 간 교역 확대 합의에 후속조치가 진행되서 에콰도르 경제를 같 이 발전시키는 중요한 경제 파트너로 활약하는 모습을 기대합니다.

References:

https://eiec.kdi.re.kr/publish/columnView.do?cidx=12576&ccode=&pp=20&pg=2 &sel_year=2020&sel_month=08

the Malecon 2000 waterfront in Guayaquil, Ecuador (Image credit: Wikipedia)

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Bangladesh's Religious Culture

by Hyunju Jung According to the Bangladesh government census, about 89% of Bangladesh citizens believe in Islam, which is one of the major cultures in Bangladesh. We call people who believe in Islam Muslims.

Bangladesh is the third-largest Muslim country in the world. We will learn about the culture of Islam in Bangladesh.

Firstly, they pray five times a day with ‫(ناَذَأ‬Ethan), the music of Islam. They pray with a pious spirit. For foreigners who do not believe in Islam, it can feel strange, but they also spend time praying together in Bangladesh. People may think those who do not pray are strange, making it hard to travel. They pray in the direction of Makkah. Makkah is in Saudi Arabia, and all Muslims in the world pray to the side of Makkah.

Also, they do not use their left hands. They think their left hands are dirty because they use their left hands on the toilet, so they use their right hands to shake hands. However, for small things, like reaching for a cup, they may use their left hand.

We learned about the religious culture of Bangladesh. I hope you get some interest in Bangladesh.

People gathered for Eid-ul-Azha prayers in Dhaka

(Image Credit: Wikipedia)

References:

https://tourtoworld.tistory.com/114

Issue 7

https://ko.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/%EB%A9%94%EC%B9%B4

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

이집트의 대표 음식과 음식문화

by Yun Kim 역사적으로 가장 위대한 문명이라 불리는 이집트 문명은 나일강 을 중심으로 두고 발전했다. 나일강은 이집트 땅을 비옥하게 만 들어주어 이집트에 과일과 채소가 풍부하게 자라도록 도왔다. 따라서 비옥한 땅에서 자란 농작물과 여러 종교 문화 덕분에, 이 집트에서는 다양성을 지닌 먹거리들이 탄생했다. 이집트 길거리에서 가장 흔히 볼 수 있는 음식이자 이집트인들의 주식인 이 빵의 이름은 ‘에이쉬(Aish)’이다. 레스토랑에서 에이 쉬를 따로 주문하지 않아도 주문한 메뉴와 함께 나올 정도로 이 빵은 이집트인들의 주식이다. 만약 맛이 궁금하다면, 인도 전통 음식인 난과 비슷한 맛이라고 상상해보면 좋을 듯 하다. 밀가루 를 화덕에서 구워 담백하고 고소한 맛이 특징이고, 길거리 시장 에서는 여러 요리들을 에이쉬와 함께 곁들여 먹는 모습을 찾아 볼 수 있다. 에이쉬와 곁들여 먹는 대표적인 소스로는 참깨를 갈 아만든 타히니(Tahini), 으깬 감자를 닮았지만 병아리콩으로 만 들어진 후무스(Hummus) 등이 있다.

에이쉬(Aish)

두번째 대표적인 이집트의 전통음식은 팔라펠(falafel), 흔히 따메야라고 부르는 음식이다. 서민음식으로 유명하지만, 계 층에 상관 없이 즐겨먹는 음식이다. 병아리콩을 갈아 반죽을 만들어 튀겨 낸 요리로, 고로케와 비슷하다. 에이쉬 안에 팔라 페와 소스를 넣어 만든 샌드위치 요리가 중동 각 지역에서 가 벼운 식사로 판매되고 있다. 또한 해외 각지에서는 전문점이 많이 생길 정도로 인기가 높다. 이집트인들의 식사는 계급 간 의 차이가 확실했다. 다른 나라와 비슷하게 높은 계급층은 육 류를 넣은 요리를 즐겨먹었고, 하층 계급의 주식은 건강한 채 식이었다. 이집트는 5000년 동안 거듭되는 정복과 지배의 오랜 역사 를 가지고 있기에, 외래에서 유입된 문화들은 이집트만의 이 국적이고 특별한 음식문화를 형성시켰다. 이집트를 정복했던 로마의 문화, 그리고 그리스 문화와 이슬람 문화까지 더해져 이집트는 문화의 다양성을 자랑하는 국가로 자리매김했다.

팔라펠(falafel) Image by sascha lechner from Pixabay

References:

http://www.foodtoday.or.kr/news/article.html?no=94729 http://travel.chosun.com/site/data/html_dir/2009/02/23/2009022300415.html

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Zambian Muba Dance

by John Suh

Ganggangsullae in Korea has the thought of spiritual solidarity in a community and has both social and medical efficacy. According to "UNESCO and Heritage," women share an exchange of cooperation, equality, and friendship while playing Ganggangsullae with neighbors, with the lyrics being written during the Japanese colonial era refecting Koreans' resistance against Japan. This means that Ganggangsullae has been steadily used as a purpose of community solidarity through multiple generations. Thus, it is possible to speculate how influential Ganggangsullae was to Korea.

Just as there is such traditional dance in Korea, Zambia also has a dance symbolizing the country.​ Zambia's traditional dance is the "Muba" dance from the Renze people in the central region and is one of the major dances of Zambia.

It was performed by the Renze people from the colonial period until the present. Compared to Ganggangsullae, which is performed only by women, it is said there were no restrictions depending on gender in dancing the Muba dance. According to UNESCO and Heritage, Muba has a therapeutic function along with social efficacy and emphasizes the spiritual identity of the community. It is similar to Korean Ganggangsullae in that the Muba dance symbolizes the spiritual identity of the community. Muba dance has the efficacy of socialization, with all members of the community enjoying the dance, enhancing their solidarity, and attracting a lot of audiences.

Due to such popularity, younger generations are also studying and learning to perform the dance. Moreover, it also has a medical ability, indicating the spiritual identity of the community. As such, because of its cultural function, it identifies its sufficient value of heritage.

Then, what is the artistic value of the Muba dance? Beginning with the ancient Greeks, the spiritual role of art has been recognized, and in ancient China, art was considered to have the position of community solidarity. Through this information, Korean Ganggangsullae and Zambian Muba dances have artistic value in both community solidarity and spiritual therapy. The purpose of the Muba dance is to represent the spiritual identity of the community.

It is mainly intended to be performed by leaving the flow to the soul, meaning that the spirit of ancestors enters the bodies of those who lead the Muba dance, and these souls adjust the bodies of the leaders to continue the dance. To sum up, the Muba dance has enough artistic value because of its spiritual value. ​ In conclusion, the Muba dance reveals the solidarity of the Zambian community and the spiritual identity of the community, which creates the value of heritage. In addition, it can be used for various purposes such as social and medical efficacy, with anyone of all ages able to learn and dance, showing similarities to Ganggangsullae in Korea. Also, it includes symbolic elements (spiritual identity) of the values and purposes of art. In short, it can be identified that the Zambian Muba dance has sufficient cultural value because of both its functional and symbolic significance.

References: https://heritage.unesco.or.kr/%EA%B0%95%EA%B0%95%EC%88%A0%EB%9E%98 /https://heritage.unesco.or.kr/잠비아-중부주-렌제-족의-무바-춤/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

TOURISM AND ECONOMY OF GABON

by Min Jung Seo Tourism and Economy of Gabon During the past 20 years, Gabon has been developing tourism for people around the world. Their main tourism sites are the 13 national parks in Gabon. Since 2000, the Gabon government has been developing mainly on luxury and niche tourism, such as bush expeditions or safari trips. Furthermore, in 2002, the Gabonese president Omar Bongo proclaimed that Gabon would set 10 percent of its land for developing the national parks. Following this, organizations have been set up to assist this movement.

According to the Oxford Business Group, Gabon has been receiving around 200,000 tourists each year from 2006 to 2011. As the National Tourism Strategy (Stratégie Nationale du Tourisme, SNT) reports, 53% of all the visitors are for business, the government has made the decision to make Gabon a major destination for ecotourism and meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) by 2025. Following the line, SNT further releases a 10-year sector development plan to increase tourism.

Gabon will facilitate land for tourist attractions and provide support for foreign tourist investment in the country. The government expects about a 5% increase in the country's GDP by the end of 2025.

Marine areas are also listed as tourist attractions. Authorities have listed 10 marine areas in Gabon for protection. These areas will, in the future, be opened for tourists by following the new Gabon blue programme. The Gabon blue programme is an extension of the Green Gabon system. The programme is pinpointing for development and sustain of industries in the tourism sector - especially for high ended areas such as sport fishing, beach tourism and wildlife observation.

Tropical areas between Port Gentil and Libreville in Gabon

References: “Gabon Contribution of Travel and Tourism to GDP (% of GDP), 1995-2019.” Knoema, knoema.com/atlas/Gabon/topics/Tourism/Travel-and-TourismTotal-Contribution-to-GDP/Contribution-of-travel-and-tourism-to-GDP-percent-of-GDP. “Gabon Looks to Address Challenges to Development in Tourism.” Oxford Business Group, 25 Jan. 2017, oxfordbusinessgroup.com/overview/ tropical-gem-given-vast-potential-niches-ecotourism-authorities-work-address-challenges-development.

Group, African Development Bank. “Gabon Economic Outlook.” African Development Bank - Building Today, a Better Africa Tomorrow, African Development Bank Group, 12 Mar. 2021, www.afdb.org/en/countries/central-africa/gabon/gabon-economic-outlook.

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Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

All Soul's Day of Czech Republic

by Yeonwoo Lee

In Czech, there is a unique holiday called All Soul's Day. All Soul's Day, called Památka zesnulých in Czech, means "a remembrance of those who have passed" and is celebrated on November 2nd annually. The citizens of Czech call this holiday dušičky (little souls) or všech svatých (of all saints) for short, and this traditional holiday is an important occasion of the year. People visit the graves of relatives and friends to send their remembrance and love to them by lighting candles and laying flowers. Hundreds of candles are lit for this day, which makes the incredible scenery of the graveyards.

References: https://www.tresbohemes.com/2016/11/souls-day-czech-republic/ http://www.myczechrepublic.com/czech_culture/czech_holidays/all-souls-day.html

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Mexican Pesos Banknote

by Hayoung Kong We can't travel abroad nowadays because the coronavirus is in vogue worldwide. But once the coronavirus epidemic ends, our overseas travel will be free. For that time, let's study the Mexican currency in detail. All economic activities are centered on money, and the currency itself is engraved with various histories that reflect the country's culture. Mexico's currency is PESO. The bills are very colorful and have photographs of important historical figures in Mexico. The statements are 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 pesos. Today, we will find out each characteristic of Mexican currency.

1000 Mexican Pesos banknote (KRW 56190, based on exchange rate of April 20, 2021)

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

200 Mexican Pesos banknote (KRW, 11238, based on exchange rate of April 20, 2021

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

The 1000 pesos feature Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla (1753-1811), who played an essential role in the early Mexican War of Independence and is considered the father of Mexican Independence.

It's very rarely used because it's the most valuable currency. They are often found in luxury hotels and restaurants but are generally rare in small facilities or streets.(아드스트라 투어, 멕시코 화폐, 2019 년 9월16일, https://blog.naver.com/mexicotours /221648764224)

The woman described in 200 pesos is a person named Juana Inés de la Cruz, also known as Juana de Asbaje. She was a philosopher who lived during the colonial period of Mexico from 1648 to 1695 and a nun who was the most excellent writer and poet. She is sitting at 200 pesos to honor her outstanding achievements. (아드스트라 투어, 멕시코 화폐, 2019년 9월16 일, https://blog.naver.com/mexicotours/221648764224). (https://www.leftovercurrency.com/exchange/mexicanpesos/current-mexican-peso-banknotes/200-mexicanpesos-banknote-series-f/)

500 Mexican Pesos banknote (KRW, 28095, based on exchange rate of April 20, 2021)

100 Mexican Pesos banknote ( KRW, 5619, based on exchange rate of April 20, 2021)

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Mexican Revolution and the 200th anniversary of Mexico's independence, the Mexican government issued 500 pesos for the famous Mexican mural artist Diego Rivera and his wife and artist, Frida Kahlo. The currency has been published since 2010 and is now actively used in Mexico. Until now, 500 pesos had the face of General Ignacio Zaragoza, who played an essential role in the battle of Puebla. It's still circulating in part, but there's been a lot more recent currency with Diego Rivera and Freda Carlo on it. (아드스트라 투어, 멕시코 화폐, 2019년 9월16일 ,https://blog. naver.com /mexicotours /221648764224).( https://www. leftovercurrency.com/ exchange/mexican-pesos/current-mexican-pesobanknotes/500-mexican-pesos-banknote-series-f/)

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Image Credit: Adobe Stock

Nezahualcóyotl, who served as ruler of the Texcoco region during the ancient Mexican period. His poems, which were both kings and poets who promoted art, science, and literature, are said to have been handed down to this day. The currency, newly issued in 2017, marks the 100th anniversary of the Constitution. (아 드스트라 투어, 멕시코 화폐, 2019년 9월16일, https://blog. naver.com/mexicotours/221648764224).(https://www. leftovercurrency.com/exchange/mexican-pesos/ current-mexican-peso-banknotes/100-mexican-pesosbanknote-series-f/) Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

50 Mexican Pesos banknote ( KRW, 2809.5, based on exchange rate of April 20, 2021)

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

The figure depicted on the 50-peso note is José María Morelos, a priest who fought in the Mexican War of Independence and served as a competent field marshall. The 50-peso note was first introduced in 2006. Because it's a plastic bill, it's pretty expensive to produce, but it's designed to last longer than paper bills. You don't have to worry if you accidentally do the laundry with a statement in your pants pocket. (아드스트라 투어, 멕시코 화폐, 2019 년 9월16일,​https://blog.naver.com/mexicotours/221648764224).(https://www.leftovercurrency.com/exchange/ mexican-pesos/current-mexican-peso-banknotes/50-mexican-pesos-banknote-series-f/)

20 Mexican Pesos banknote ​( KRW, 1123.8, based on exchange rate of April 20, 2021)

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

Benito Juarez, considered the greatest president in Mexican history, is depicted in 20 pesos. President Benito Juarez is regarded as one of Mexico's great leaders and is sometimes called Abraham Lincoln in Mexico. The first plastic bill was issued in 2007, and the hologram design is printed. (아드스트라 투어,멕시코 화폐, 2019년 9월16일 https://blog.naver. com/mexicotours /221648764224). (https://www.leftovercurrency.com/exchange/mexicanpesos/current-mexican-peso-banknotes/20-mexican-pesos-banknote-series-f/) References: https://m.blog.naver.com/mexicotours/221648764224

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Who is Nizami Ganjavi?

by Haewon Park

Image credit: Wikipedia

In light of world literature, two prominent poets redefined the cultural environment of mysticism and prejudices of patriarchal feudalism by utilizing the humanistic influence of art. One of these was William Shakespeare, and the other was Nizami Ganjavi. Nizami Ganjavi is one of the most outstanding representatives of the Eastern Renaissance who showed the quintessence of world literature and philosophy.

Ilyas ibn Yusif (Nizami’s actual name) was born in the 12th century in sunny Azerbaijan. From the beginning, he doubted the deep intellect and poetic talent that God gifts. To fill his desire, he accumulated his knowledge and experiences diligently so that he could satisfy his poetic talent.

Such actions taken by him brought forth great attributes of scientific and philosophical research, which led to the development of happiness in human beings.

Nizami Ganjavi, the genius son of Azerbaijan, showed his created synthesis of progressive humanist thought and unique poetic art over the subsequent centuries. The central motif of his poem is “Humanity,” which was regarded as Nizami’s sacred mission to apply to the service of his people. Such motifs are effectively shown in Nizami’s art. His works have been spread worldwide, consequently, playing a role in humanity’s moral development.

References: http://www.visions.az/en/news/271/a3e8bd5c/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Bangladesh's Strategy for Economic Growth That We Did Not Know

by Minseo Kim The People's Republic of Bangladesh has a population of 166.3 million, being the eighth-most populous country in the world.

Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan through the War of Liberation in 1971 and has been working to rebuild a new, independent country. As is the case with most newly formed countries, social chaos and the after-effects of the war negatively impacted Bangladesh for a considerable period of time and held the country back from making significant progress, especially due to the lack of development in the war-torn areas. However, in the 21st century, Sheikh Hasina, daughter of the Father of Nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, rose to leadership within the Bangladesh Awami League, one of the major political parties in Bangladesh, in 1996. Her involvement in the country’s affairs stabilized politics and increased economic growth at an annual high rate of 6% in the 2000s.

In particular, the country’s economic growth has taken a better shape since the declaration of the Bangladesh Awami League’s "Vision 2021" in 2008.

Vision 2021 is a national policy aimed to develop the Bangladeshi social and economic environment from a low-income economy into a middle-income economy by 2021, the year marking the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh establishment. This particular movement includes extensive national development strategies in the political, economic, social, and cultural sectors to reform all aspects of society. One of the strategies specifically focuses on the development of the ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) industry, known as the "Digital Bangladesh" policy, in order to modernize the country and bring it to the same technological level as other middle-income countries.

Many people were skeptical of the plausibility and timeframe when the Digital Bangladesh policy was first proposed more than a decade ago. However, the results of the policy are vivid throughout society. In 2009, the number of mobile phone users in Bangladesh was at 20 million, but it has since increased to 120 million. The country had to establish over 8500 digital centers in order to support its citizens’ use of digital devices. And with that progress, there was little interruption in government services and economic growth even during the COVID-19 lockdown. The country having about twothirds of its population under the age of 25, has a very bright outlook in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution due to its rapid and seamless implementation of technology into all parts of society. Let us watch Bangladesh become "A Surprise Digital Leader in Asia," as the title of Newsweek magazine proclaims.

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh

Image credit: Mohammad Rahmatullah from pixabay

References: Kosis.kr The financial express.com.bd Newsweek.com Ministry of Foreign Affairs Korea

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Wikipedia.org

Koica

World bank (data.worldbank.org)

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Flag of the Republic of Zambia

by Haewon Park

Image credit: Wikipedia

Zambia is a landlocked country in south-central Africa, which name is originated from the Zambezi River. Its population is unevenly distributed, primarily concentrated in the most developed area: Line of rail. Line of rail is a very crucial part of Zambia, connecting the Copperbelt with Lusaka and the border town of Livingstone.

Zambia’s national flag has a design of a green background with three vertical red, black, and orange stripes in the bottom of the right corner, and there is an orange eagle on three stripes. One of the significant parts about this nation’s flag is that the eagle and vertical stripes are located on the right part of the flag, contrary to the center where most of the national flags keep their emblems.

Four colors are used in the Zambian flag: green in the background, red, black, and orange. The green color symbolizes the wide land of Zambia. The red, black, orange rectangular block of vertical stripes individually indicates the fight for independence, the people of the national, mineral wealth, and the abundant natural resources of the country. Moreover, the eagle on the three stripes signifies the citizen’s capability to overcome the difficulties that the country has confronted throughout history and its future.

Prior to the independence, Zambia was a part of Rhodesia and Nyasaland territory. In this period their flag was changed by the British.

References:

Zambia Flag. Zambia Flag (Download SVG, PNG). (n.d.). Retrieved November 13, 2021, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/flags/zambia.

Zambia Flag. Zambia Flag (Download SVG, PNG). (n.d.). Retrieved November 13, 2021, from https://worldpopulationreview.com/flags/zambia.

“Zambia Flag.” A Symbol of Zambia's History, https://www.victoriafalls-guide.net/zambia-flag.html.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Festivales en Ecuador

by Yeokyung (Julia) Jo

CARNAVAL En febrero se celebra un festival en el Ecuador denominado Carnaval, en el cual las personas juegan con agua, espuma de carnaval, harina y demás. En carnaval las personas se echan agua entre ellas y también se juega con las personas que caminan por las calles. Normalmente las personas no juegan carnaval con mujeres con niños o bebés, por ello, hay mujeres que salen de sus casas con almohadas, pero si las encuentran, por mentir les echan un montón de agua.

FESTIVAL DE YAMOR Yamor es una bebida tradicional hecha con siete tipos diferentes de maíz que sólo se puede encontrar en Otavalo. El Festival de Yamor es uno de los festivales más importantes de Otavalo, que se originó en la tradición de agradecer y celebrar a los dioses después de la cosecha de maíz. En estos días, se hacen otras actividades como fuegos artificiales y luchas de toros. Un evento popular es una competencia de natación en donde la gente nada a través de las aguas heladas del lago San Pablo.

La temporada festiva es en otoño, por lo que el agua del lago es muy fría, pero muchos participantes nadan un total de 4 kilómetros de distancia.

Parade of Carnival, Cuenca, Ecuador

Image Credit: fernando zhiminaicela from pixabay

References: https://overseas.mofa.go.kr/ec-ko/brd/m_6258/view.do?seq=608758&srchFr=&amp%3BsrchTo=&amp%3BsrchWord=&amp%3BsrchTp=&amp%3B multi_itm_seq=0&amp%3Bitm_seq_1=0&amp%3Bitm_seq_2=0&amp%3Bcompany_cd=&amp%3Bcompany_nm= https://naturegalapagos.com/blog/ecuador-festivals-traditions/ https://gulliver.com.ec/6-festivals-in-ecuador/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

이집트의 종교: 이슬람과 사원, 그리고 교회

by Yun Kim 이집트인의 90%는 무슬림이다. 국가의 전체 인구 중 90%가 믿는 종교라면, 그 종교는 문화, 환경, 경제 등 모든 부분의 중심축 이 된다. 따라서 이집트인들의 삶과 가치기준은 이슬람의 경전인 코란(qur'ān)을 바탕으로 한다. 코란은 이슬람의 선지자인 무하 마드가 알라의 계시 내용을 기록한 책이다. 이슬람의 깊은 역사만큼 이집트 카이로에는 유서 깊은 사원이 있다. 아므르 이븐 알 아스 모스크(Amr ibn al-As Mosque)는 이집트에서 가장 오래된 건물이자 아프리카에서 가장 오래된 사원이다. 641년에 아라비아 군대 사 령관 아므르 이븐 알 아스가 이집트를 점령함으로써 건설 되었고, 십자군의 공격으로 인해 불탔지만 살라딘이 모 스크를 1172년 재건했다. 1798년, 나폴레옹 군대가 카이로를 공격하면서 파괴된 모스크의 마지막 복원은 1875 년 경에 이루어졌다. 이 사원은 그리스와 로마의 건축 양식을 보유하고 있고 150개의 백대리석으로 지어졌다. 이 사원에는 지금도 꾸준히 많은 무슬림이 모여 예배를 드린다. 그러나 이슬람이 우세한 이집트에서도 기독교와 관련된 여러 장소들을 찾아볼 수 있다. 카이로에 위치한 이 교회는 공중교회(The Hanging Church, Cairo)라는 독특한 이름을 가지고 있다. 로마 요새의 문루 위에 지어졌다하여 이렇게 불린다. 이 교회에는 또 다른 인상적인 특징을 찾아볼 수 있는데, 바로 노아의 방주를 본따서 건축한 목조지붕이다. 또한 이 교회 내부에는 성경과 관련된 많은 예술품들이 있고 콥트 총대주교가 7-13세기까지 머물렀던 장소이기 때문에 역사적으로도 의미 있어 만약 이집트를 가게된 다면 방문해보기에 좋을 장소인 것 같다. 이 외에도 이집트에는 피라미드 외에도 독특하고 유서 깊은 관광지들이 많이 있다. 이집트는 역사가 매우 길어 피라미드만큼 멋진 장소들이 많다는 걸 알아볼 수 있었다.

Amr ibn al-As Mosque (Image credit: Wikipedia)

References: https://www.egypttoursportal.com/en-nz/mosque-of-amr-ibn-al-aas/ https://www.etltravel.com/cairo/hanging-church-egypt/ https://www.dreamstime.com/very-beautiful-church-located-coptic-neighborhood-city-cairo-building-differentiated-architecture-egyptimage135417182 https://www.egypttailormade.net/en/egypt-packages/city-breaks/king-chephren-program.html http://www.coptic-cairo.com/ oldcairo/church/mollaqa/mollaqa.html

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

One Step Forward for Both Mexico and South Korea

by Haewon Park

Image credit: https://spanish.korea.net/Events/Overseas/view?articleId=12787

Since the diplomatic relationship between Mexico and South Korea started in 1962, both countries have been helping each other in many fields including culture, economy, and so on. However, there was one thing that hasn't been solved yet: FTA(Free Trade Agreement). The discussion started in 2006, it was suspended in 2008 without any outcome. Even though it was resumed in 2016, there wasn't any progress in the issue.

Fortunately, the economic forum was held in Mexico City on December 6th of 2021 between the Korean embassy in Mexico and COMCE(Consejo Empresarial Mexicano de Comercio) to give one more step forward on the economic cooperation between the two countries.

In this forum, Korea clarified its opinion by clearly mentioning that this FTA will make Mexico and Korea, complementary and reciprocal trading and investment partners. As Mexico expressed that the Republic of Korea is an ideal market for the growth of Mexico's commerce as well, both sides are expecting positive outcomes from this economic forum.

References: Yonhap news (Ed.), (2021, December 7). "한.멕시코 FTA는 양국 모두에 기회"...멕시코서 경제포럼 - 매일경제. Maeil Economic Daily. Retrieved December 31, 2021, from https://www.mk.co.kr/news/world/view/2021/12/1119518/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

The Czech New Wave

by Eojin Park What was the New Wave?

The Czech New Wave was an extremely influential movement in Czech cinema that occurred during the 1960s. The movement was led by several daring students of the Film and Television School of the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague (FAMU), who explored a variety of genres through their internationally-acclaimed works in film.

Timeline - 1962: The Czech New Wave was first sparked by the debut films of several directors: Milos Forman (Black Peter), Véra Chytilová (Something Different), and Jaromil Jires (The City). Other directors soon followed, including Jan Něme, Evald Schorm, Pavel Jurácek, Jan Schmidt, and others.

1965 ~ 1966: Many Czech films would earn international recognition: the directing film of Ján Kadár and Elmar Klos won the first Czechoslovak Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in 1965 after the release of their film. A Shop on the High Street. In addition, Jiri Menzel, won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language in 1966 for his movie adaptation of the Czech book Closely Observed Trains.

1967 ~ 1968: The New Wave’s success led to famous figureheads attacking communist authorities far more boldly, such as Milos Forman and Véra Chytilová. However, during the spring of Prague, putting a stop to this brief but greatly influential period in Czech film history.

What were some characteristics of New Waves Film? First, innovative creative decisions/directing: Despite sharing common themes, all the directors who led the New Wave movement had their own individual approaches and often created films that varied in both genre and nature. Second, common themes: new Waves films often incorporated humor, absurdity, pathos, and surrealism.

Third, attacks on traditions and totalitarianism: Films such as Closely Wached Trains (1966) and The Joke (1968) openly criticized totalitarianism and its flaws, which was especially bold for films created in a Communist country.

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Director Miloš Forman at the 44th Karlovy Vary International Film Festival 2009, Czech Republic

Věra Chytilová at 42nd Karlovy Vary International Film Festival

Image credit: Wikipedia

Image credit: Wikipedia

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea Key Film #1: The Set in a Net (Director: Štefan Uher, Date: 1967).

The plot follows a young man volunteering in a work brigade in order to bring his father back in good standing with the government.

The movie also features themes such as distant parents, teenage relationships, cheating, and the reluctance of teenagers to commit to volunteering, which were some of the themes that were strictly censured by the government. The film criticizes the government’s refusal to use technology and it’s insistence on using traditional labor. It also discusses how communism was used as a means for profit rather than self-actualization.

Image credit: Česko-Slovenská filmová databáze https://www.csfd.cz/film/28765-slunce-v-siti/prehled/

Key Film #2: The Firemen’s Ball (Director: Milos Forman, Date: 1967).

The Firemen’s Ball was a groundbreaking film that cast non-actors who often improvised their dialogue. This enabled the film to appeal to many Czech citizens at the time, who wanted their reality to be represented through cinema. Unfortunately, the film was banned from being distributed when the Soviets invaded Prague in August 1968.

Image credit: Wikipedia

Key Film #3: A Report on the Party and the Guests (Director: Jan Nëmec, Date: 1966).

A Report on the Party and the Guests(1966) is notable for its blatant criticism of the communist Czech government. The plot follows a group of people who are trapped into a psychological prison by a group of men. Despite being given multiple chances to flee, they still stay obedient to the group of men. The film was immediately banned before its public release, but its reflection of the imposing nature of the communist government remains influential today.

Image credit: Wikipedia

In conclusion, despite the brevity of Czech New Wave era, it was still an extremely critical period for Czech cinema and enabled the world to watch and learn about Czech works in film. The Czech republic is still continuing to develop new film talent and cinematography, and the increase of foreign productions that have been flocking to the country will further contribute to the Czech movie industry.

References: Houston, Czech, and Czech Houston Cinema Under Communism: The Czech New Wave Czech Center Museum Houston - A Place To Celebrate Our World's Art, Music, Dance And Diverse Cultures-What To Do In Houston? Visit The Czech Center Museum Houston The Czech Center Museum Houston Is A Meeting Place For Czech And Local Culture, A Place Where Artists And Professionals, Czech And Non-Czech Alike, Can Celebrate Art, Culture And Music.. What To Do In Houston? Visit The Czech Center Museum Houston, 2021, https://www.czechcenter.org/ blog/2021/5/17/cinema-under-communism-tho-czech-new-wave. Accessed 25 Dec 2021.

"10 Essential Films From The Czech New Wave". Taste Of Cinema - Movie Reviews And Classic Movie Lists, 2014, http://www.tasteofcinema.com/2014/10-essential-films-from-the-czech-new-wavel. Accessed 25 Dec 2021.

"Czech New Wave". Nowwavefilm.Com, 2021, http://www.newwavefilm.com international czech-new-wave.shtml. Accessed 25 Dec 2021.

Events et al. "Czech Cinema Prague Life" Local-Life.Com, 2021, https://www.local-life.com/prague/articles/czech-cinema. Accessed 25 Dec 2021.

"Czech Film Industry - History". Myczechrepublic.Com, 2021, http://www.myczechrepublic.com/czech_culture/czech_film.html. Accessed 25 Dec 2021.

NET, THE, and Stefan Uher. "The Sun In A Net". MUBI, 2021, https://mubi.com/films/the-sun-in-a-net. Accessed 25 Dec 2021.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Azerbaijan and Carpets

by Hansoo Bae In Azerbaijan, a Middle Eastern country whose culture is based mainly on the applied arts and are known for their handicrafts, with "carpets" being the pinnacle of their craft. While being part of the Soviet Union, the people of Azerbaijan started to develop a culture of handicrafts, and once declaring independence on August 30th, 1991, they officially started to practice this act and has been passed down generations.

The most famous handicrafts are carpets, which have been divided into 4 different groups, each denoting the geographical zones of Azerbaijan. These consist of Baku Carpets, Ganja Carpets, Karabakh Carpets and Shirvan Carpets. To start off, Shirvan is one of the oldest regions of Azerbaijan.

Shirvan Carpets shows numerous motifs, mainly from daily life and birds. Baku Carpets are, known for their soft material with extravagant that give people a “‘bright’” mood or theme, allowing a greater variety of motifs.

On the other hand, Ganja Carpets follow a common pattern developed in the Gazakh District with it displaying geometric shapes to represent life forms including plants and animals. Finally, the Karabakh Carpets. Originating from the Karabakh region, the carpet has 33 unique styles and since it is made from local wool, it can have rich colors. "Karabakh carpets are usually divided into four groups: with or without medallions, namazlik, and subject carpets(Wikipedia)”. Through this rich tradition that has continued for generations, Azerbaijan is gaining popularity and attention around the world.

Carpet Museum in Baku, Azerbaijan

References: “Karabakh Carpet.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 29 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karabakh_carpet

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

IT Outsourcing is Changing the Lives of Bangladesh People

by Minseo Kim

In the past, Bangladesh, as a new country (independence in 1971), was unable to escape its status as the poorest country due to political instability, high population density, and backward industrial structure biased toward agriculture. However, in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, ICT (Information & Communication Technology) is transforming Bangladesh into one of the countries with the fastest economic growth in the world.

Bangladesh has reduced the proportion of the agricultural and fishery industry from 55% in 1970 to 14.23% as of the 2017/2018 fiscal year, and has rapidly expanded the proportion of manufacturing and service industries. In particular, the intensive fostering of the ICT industry expressed as 'Digital Bangladesh', is improving the quality of life of Bangladesh people beyond changes in the industrial structure.

To lower costs, many large companies in developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia are turning IT operations such as computer programming and web design into outsourcing in developing countries, including manpower is benefiting from IT outsourcing in advanced countries. According to the Oxford Internet Research Institute, Bangladesh is already the second-largest supplier of online labor after India.

These IT outsourcing jobs are not only reducing unemployment in Bangladesh, but also giving young people new opportunities and increasing women's social activities. Eventually, the "Digital Bangladesh” policy is driving not only industrial structure and economic growth, but also the development of society and culture.

References: 1)https://www.mofa.go.kr/www/brd/m_4099/view.do?seg=367580 2)https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/06/how-the-digital-economy-is-shaping-a-new-bangladesh/ 3)https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/2019/03/13/women-of-bangladesh-in-the-digital-era 4)https://tradinqeconomics.com/bangladesh/exports 5)https://www.dhakatribune.com/what-the-world-says/2017/07/22/oxford-bangladesh-second-labourers 6)https://www.oil.ox.ac.uk/?s=bangladesh

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Kenneth David Kaunda

by Chae A Lee

Image credit: Wikipedia

Kenneth David Kaunda was born on April 28, 1924, in Northern Rhodesia (old name of Zambia). He was a major figure in Zambia’s political development and served as Zambia’s president until 1991.

His parents were both teachers who taught among the Bemba ethnic group in the northern part of Zambia during its colonial period. Kaunda, like his parents, began to teach in the mid-1940s in Tanzania.

Kenneth Kaunda returned to Zambia in 1949, and as he worked as an interpreter and adviser on African affairs, he acquired knowledge of the colonial government and political skills. He then became the president of the African National Congress (ANC), wherein he forged a militant policy against the British plan for a federation of three central African colonies, including Zambia. This was when Kaunda became famous for his “positive nonviolent action,” a form of peaceful civil disobedience that yielded two outcomes: 1) the British’s elimination of the federation policy and 2) the imprisonment of Kaunda and allies that led them to become national heroes.

After Kaunda was released from prison in 1960, he was elected as the president of the United National Independence Party (UNIP). This party became overwhelmingly successful due to Kaunda’s strong sense of leadership. Hundreds and thousands of members joined the party, and several leaders were called to participate in discussions about the three African colonies with the British. He also played a huge role in the early 1960s when he became the president of the Pan-African Freedom movement.

On October 24, 1964, he became the first President of independent Zambia.

Despite having immense power, he still faced numerous challenges that needed to be addressed to push for Zambia’s progress as an independent nation. One of the issues was tribalism and the trauma of tribal civil war. Kaunda imposed a one-party rule and a new constitution to ensure his party’s uncontested rule.

He also took advantage of one thing that would become Zambia’s main source of income and economy: copper. He invested large sums in the mining sector and enhanced copper-mining operations, which – unfortunately – led to the decrease in agricultural production and the increase of Zambia’s dependence on the copper industry. This induced the rise of different country-wide issues that continue to be major problems in modern Zambia. After being involved in political controversies, Kaunda left politics in the 1990s. Then, in 2002, he was appointed as the Balfour African President-inResidence at Boston University.

Though he faced significant political turmoil, Kaunda established organizations and foundations to address HIV/AIDS, conflict, and many more, prior to his death on June 2021. Nevertheless, Zambians know him as the “Father of Modern Zambia,” the man who fought for Zambia’s freedom.

References: https://www.sahistory.org.za/people/kenneth-kaunda https://www.britannica.com/biography/Kenneth-Kaunda

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Economic State: Is Ecaudor a developing country

by Seoin Chloe Yang There is a mere difference between being a 3rd world country and a developing country. As “developing” is a relatively noble term of “3rd world”, the nuance makes the difference. While 3rd world itself is aggressive and hateful towards one, developing sounds more of a humanized, full-ofhope type of land where they have all the possibilities of growth and development right in front of them. But essentially, those are names of countries that have low development rates. To be specific, out of hundreds of economic indicators, life expectancy, education, and purchasing power parity are the best-known human development indicators, published annually by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). According to this measurement, Ecuador is a developing country.

Ecuador’s life expectancy is 77.22 years in 2020 . It has increased about 20 years throughout the last 30 years. From 58.72 years in 1971 to 77.22, growing at an average annual rate of 0.56%. The world average is currently 72.81 years, a 0.24% increase from 2020. In other words, Ecuador’s life expectancy is relatively higher than the world average, indicating that it cannot be the sole factor to frame Ecuador as a developing country.

Education in Ecuador is surprisingly high. According to Macro Trends, Ecuador’s literacy rate indicates 92.83% in 2017. Though it has been declining through 2015-2017, Ecuador is highly educated overall.

On the other hand, the world literacy rate was 86.22% in 2017. In short, Ecuador has had, and will have higher education levels than the rest of the world.

Finally, it is purchasing power (economic capacity) of Ecuador. The World Bank clarifies Ecuador’s GDP as approximately 98.808 billion dollars in 2020. It ranks 62nd place out of 190 countries and has recently decreased 7.8% through 2020 and increased 4.1% in 2021. Considering proportions, 62nd is not a low ranking but it is not enough to place it in arms with the United States, China, etc.

Such is the reason why the state of Ecuador is often confusing to understand. It is difficult to make a clear stance, but most of the world’s scholars clarify Ecuador as a developing country with potential.

Image credit: Wikipedia

Quito,

the financial capital of Ecuador

References: Knomena, Life expectancy at birth-Ecuador, https://knoema.com/atlas/Ecuador/topics/Demographics/Age/Life-expectancy-at-birth Macro Trends, world life-expectancy, https://www.macrotrends.net/countries/WLD/world/life-expectancy Macro Trends, Literacy-rate, Ecuador, https://www.macrotrends.net/countries/ECU/ecuador/literacy-rate Worldometers, GDP by Country, https://www.worldometers.info/gdp/gdp-by-country/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

New Year's Day Traditions and Rituals of Mexico

by Hangyeom (Erick) Kim Although the contents of typical new year's day celebrations are similar all over the world, each country has its own new year's day celebration tradition that makes its country special from one another. Of course, Mexico has its own. During New Year's Eve and New Year's day, they eat bacalao (dried, salted codfish), buñuelos (dough ball dessert), and ponche (fruit punch). It is common for them to stay together and eat the leftovers.

On the other hand, before midnight between the New Year's day, they eat 12 grapes with every 12 chimes on the clock's bell, hoping that these 12 grapes will bring luck during the next year. In order toTo get rid of the old and become familiar with the new year, they clean the house, take a bath, mop the floor with cinnamon water, and throw a bucket of water out of the window as part of the rituals to welcome the new year.

One interesting thing is that during these two days, ladies wear colored underwear: red for love and passion; yellow for prosperity and happiness; green for wealth and well-being; and white for hope and peace. They also do something that is called 'walking the suitcase' which they believe will bring them good travels in the following year. They walk with a suitcase around the house or walk around the suitcase put in the middle of the room. Finally, they burn candles. In this ritual, candles are typically surrounded by lentils, beans, rice, corn, flour, and cinnamon. When all these ingredients get waxed after the candle is left to burnout, they bury them, wishing wealth and food in the following year.

Up until this point, we have read the diverse traditions and rituals of New Year's Day in Mexico. How about yours? Put any of your country's rituals of New year's day in the comment section.

Fireworks to celebrate New Year in a bay of Acapulco, Mexico

References: Carlos. (2017, August 31). 9 Mexican New Year traditions. El jalisco. Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.eljalisco.com/9-mexican-yeartraditions/ New Year’s Day in Mexico. https://www.timeanddate.com/ (n.d.). Retrieved January 1, 2022, from https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/mexico/ new-year-day

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Czech Culture: Antonín Dvorák

by Eojin Park

Image credit: Wikipedia

Who was Antonín Dvořák? Despite there being many influential Czech classical composers in history, Antonín Dvořákwas the first Bohemian composer to achieve worldwide recognition. He was extremely famous for incorporating Czech folk music into 19th century Romantic music, which was extremely shocking at the time and remains impressive today.

Early life - September 8th, 1841: On this date, Antonín Dvořák was born in a village north of Prague.

He was the first of nine children, and became exposed to music at a young age due to his father’s occupation as an innkeeper. 1857: Around 1857, a music teacher perceived Dvořák’s precocious talent when he was twelve-years-old. The teacher induced his father to enroll Dvořák at the Institute for Church Music in Prague. The 1860s: During the 1860s, Dvořák tutored many students, including his future wife. Although he was financially hard-pressed, he had ample time to compose, which led to the creation of many of his best-known works.

Rise to Fame: Johannes Brahms, who was a lifelong friend of Dvořák, recommended Dvořák to his publisher Fritz SImrock in December 1887. Simrock published some of Dvořák’s works, which were Slavonic Dances for piano duet, under the title Klãnge ous Möhren (Sounds from Moravia, later known in English a Moravian Duets). This led to international recognition of Dvořák’s works due to its fresh and spontaneous-sounding dance rhythms, especially after his works were performed in Dresden, Hamburg and Vienna in the 1800s.

Notable Work: In June 1891, Dvořák was invited to teach at the National Conservatory of Music of America. Although he only traveled to America to support his family, he would produce many of his best-known works there. This included the Ninth symphony (subtitles “From the New World”), the String Quartet in F, and the String Quintet in E. He also wrote the Cello Concerto in B minor, which is arguably the greatest concerto for cello composed in history.

Final years: In 1895, due to disputes over his salary, Dvořák returned to Bohemia with his six children.

Later, Dvořák completed his opera ‘Rusalka’ in November 1900 (see image on the left). This was followed by a period of relative inactivity, and he ceased traveling and conducting. He died at age 62 from a stroke on May 1st, 1904.

Conclusion: The Czech proverb “Every Czech is a musician” holds true when we look at the number of Czech contributions to classical music. Among them, Dvořák is noted for his genius ability to bring new spins to classical compositions. Despite his humble origins, personal tragedies, and many financial straits, he was able to leave behind many of the most influential classical music pieces of the 19th century. As one of the Czech Republic’s many national points of pride, Dvořák’s compositions remain enchanting to listeners, and his legacy endures as a representative of his nation’s rich musical heritage.

References: "Antonin Dvorak Biography, Music, & Facts". Encyclopedia Britannica, 2022, https://www.britannica.com/biography Antonin Dvorak. Accessed 1 Jan 2022, "Biography | Antonin Dvorak. Cz". Antonin-Dvorak. Cz, 2022, http://www.antonin-dvorak.cz/en/life. Accessed 1 Jan 2022. faune, Prelude. "Dvořák: Biography, Compositions And More Facts About The Composer" Classic FM, 2022, https://www.classicfm.com/composers/dvorak/guides/dvorakfacts/. Accessed 1 Jan 2022.

"ANTONIN DVORAK Biography -DAHA''. DAHA, 2022, https://www.dvoraknyc.org/bio. Accessed 1 Jan 2022.

"Antonin Dvorák Biography''. www.Deutsche Grammophon.Com, 2022, https://www.deutschegrammophon.com/en/composers/antonin-dvorak/ biography. Accessed 1 Jan 2022.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Azerbaijan's Cuisine

by Hansoo Bae

Azerbaijan, a country in the Middle East, has recently gained attention due to its unique yet traditional culture. Azerbaijan can attract international tourists through its unique cuisine filled with nutritious ingredients making several traditional dishes such as Kufta Bozbash, Ovdukh and Qutab. Apart from these traditional dishes, there are a number of other dishes that attract both locals and tourists. These consist of Plov, Dolma, Saj Ichi, Piti, Buglama, and Gutabs.

With these dishes being filled with ingredients common to their tradition and culture, it is able to continuously maintain popularity.

For example, Plov, one of the most famous dishes in Azerbaijan, is mainly based on rice with there being several options allowing for a more diverse and unique taste. There are numerous options consisting of lamb plov, chicken plov, Chilov plov, Shirin plov, and much more. Due to this flexibility in the recipe, it allows the people to customize their own Pilov making it a traditional dish that has been passed down generations in Azerbaijan. Traditionally, Kufta Bozbash can be found common in most households and restaurants domestically. Kufta Bozbash in simple terms would be a ‘meatball soup’ with the emphasis on the köfte.

Köfte Köfte is a meatball dish common in all Middle Eastern countries including Azerbaijan. In addition to the köfte, there are other ingredients that come along including onions, mint, potatoes, tomatoes, and carrots that allow for the saffron-seasoned köfte broth to gain their taste. Originally, Kufta Bozbash used to serve large meatballs but recently, people have made the dish smaller allowing it to be served as an appetizer in restaurants. This special cuisine of Azerbaijan has attracted tourists from all over the world to try the traditional cuisine until today.

References: “Kufta-Bozbash.” FlavorsofBaku, flavorsofbaku.com/portfolio-view/ kufta-bozbash/.

“Azerbaijani Cuisine.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 28 July 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azerbaijani_cuisine.

“Azerbaijani Food: 17 Most Popular and Traditional Dishes to Try.” Nomad Paradise, 18 Aug. 2020, nomadparadise.com/azerbaijani-food/.

“Azerbaijani Cuisine - Interesting Features and Popular Dishes.”

Advantour.com, 2021, www.advantour.com/azerbaijan/cuisine.htm.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Beauty of Traditional Clothes in Bangladesh

by Chester Chan-Hyun Park Every culture has its own traditional costume culture that represents a unique cultural existence from ancient times to the present by different cultural factors and elements.

Bangladesh is one of the countries that have a remarkable traditional costume culture. In Bangladesh, Saree and Salwar Kameez is the most common dress for women. Out of these two, the most eye-catching and beautiful dress is Sari.

Sari is a form of clothes made by draping fabric, while being unstitched, 5-7 m long and created using 1-1.5 m wide fabric which wraps the legs and shoulders with both ends of the fabric. It is usually made of cotton or silk and can be dyed or embroidered to add a variety of colors and patterns. Since the dress is not made using traditional methods such as sewing, the fabric is more colorful and the design, as well as the uniqueness creates such attractive clothing. Due to such reasons, Jamdani Saree is globally famous for its artistic weavings and craftsmanship. In 2013 Jamdani weaving was declared a UNESCO intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Sari is also worn in countries such as: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. Such is the case since, the clothing is set to have first appreaded during the Indus Valley civilization, which flourished around the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent in 2800-1800 BC. Nowadays, people in Bangladesh wear the Salwar Kameez or more western-styled outfits in their daily life due to its convenience, but still wear Sarees at formal events or at social gatherings.

The standard of beauty changes with the passage of time, but the style of traditional clothing does not change. Bangladeshi traditional Saree is surely considered as a cultural icon. I believe that the unique and ethnic tastes in aesthetic and spiritual feels of the people, cultural costume heritage should be main identity of the nation.

References: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sari https://www.aarong.com/women https://eresources.nlb.gov.sg/infopedia/articles/SIP_2013-0920_164320.html https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shalwar_kameez http://en.bbarta24.net/special-stroy/2018/07/09/18588 https://www.unnatisilks.com/jamdani-introduction-indian-crafts. html

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Famous Landmarks about Zambia

by Seonhan Kim There are lots of interesting landmarks in Zambia that people do not know very well. Zambia has landforms such as lowlands in usual. It becomes a wetland during the rainy season. There are also lots of historical landmarks in certain destinations. Different kinds of landmarks that are suggested for the tourist are Cathedral of The Holy Cross Lusaka, Gorge Swing, Mukuni Village, and lastly Dag Hammarskjold Memorial.

The first site to be introduced is called the “Cathedral of The Holy Cross Lusaka”. This cathedral was built in 1962. It is the mother church of the Anglican Diocese. Anglican Diocese is the ecclesiastical district under the jurisdiction of a bishop. Location of the Cathedral of The Holy Cross Lusaka looks down on the capital city of Zambia Lusaka. It is also the national shrine for prayers for the Zambians.

A theme that was proposed to be shown Intentional Discipleship in a World of Differences.

Image credit: Wikipedia

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Batoka Gorge, Victoria Falls

The next location to be introduced is Victoria Falls, and Gorge Swing is one of the extreme sports you can play in the canyon of Zambia. It is within the widely opened space in Batoka Gorge, Victoria Falls. The swing across Victoria Falls is 95m to 120m above the ground. Also, there is a 70m free fall.

The wire is suspended across the gorge with a width of 316m and 120m deep. You will be able to perceive the extreme and fresh nature of Zambia.

Another landmark to be introduced will be Mukuni Village. Mukuni village was founded during the 18th century. It is a royal village of Zambia that has a long historical culture. It is a hometown for approximately 7000 Leya people. Chief of this village has invited people to his village to show their strong Colk culture that was being maintained until nowadays. You will be able to taste the traditional food in Zambia and the village.

The last landmark place to introduce will be one of the landmarks of UNESCO called Dag Hammarskjold Memorial. Dag Hammarskjold Memorial is 10km away from the Ndola West forest. This memorial is where the plane crash happened and also the place where Dag the second and United Nations secretary died. They put their end in 17th century September 1961. It was considered a national monument during 1970. The museum about the Dag Hammarskjold Memorial also opened in 1981. Inside the museum, you will be able to find the evidence that was left during the accidents to receive the feeling of being more realistic. IT is also used for collections of books and Information on how the United Nations reacted towards the accident at Dag Hammarskjold.

Image Credit: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/dag-hammarskjold-crash-site

References: "THE 10 BEST Sights & Historical Landmarks in Zambia. Tripadvisor, https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractionsi-g293842-IActivitiess-c47-Zambia. html.

HolyCrossLusaka. "About The Cathedral." Tumblr, https://www.anglicancathedraloflusaka.com/about-us "Gorgie Swing." Wild Horizons, 3.Feb. 2020, https://www.wildhorizons.co.za/see-and do/victoria-falls/gorge-swing/.

"Mukuni Village Tour." Wild Horizons, 16 July 2018, https://www.wildherizons.co.za/see-and-do/livingstone/mukuni-village-tour/.

Centre, UNESCO World Heritage. "Dag Hammarskjold Memorial (Crash Site). Dag Hammarsigold Memorial (Crash Site) UNESCO World Heritage Centre, https://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/867/.

Fuller, Mary E. "Dag Hammarskjöld Memorial." Zambia, 20 Sept. 2016, https://otherplaceszambia.wordpress.com/2016/09/20/dag-hammarskjoldmemorial/.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

The Economic Relationship Between Ecuador and the United States

by Jiwon Hwang

As a developing country, Ecuador has a riotous quantum of natural coffers, thus relies on their import of these goods; canvas, bananas, shrimp, gold, and agrarian products. The country is showing its potential for further development, bringing attention to the global community. However, this attention does not only come from their productivity of agricultural products but also from their relationship with the United States.

In 1839, the United States and Ecuador signed the Treaty of Peace, Navigation, Friendship, and Commerce. Over the last 200 years, their relationship has become much tighter and stronger resulting in the United States as Ecuador’s largest trading partner and is continuing to maintain their shared economic values till now. However, not only are they having frequent trade, but also share the same dedication to building a more democratic and stable future for the two nations, showing their same wills to strengthen their economic relationship.

The global community will have to keep an eye on Ecuador, as a developing country since the US, as the world’s primary engine of the global economy, is providing massive support and continuing their active trade of goods.

References: Re ferences: https://ec.usembassy.gov/our-relationship/policy-history/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Economy of Czech Republic

by Seoyoung Sung

BB centrum business district in Prague, Czech Image credit: Wikipedia

The Czech Republic currently (10/05/21) has a population of 10,699,142, placing it 89th in the whole world. The GDP per person in the Czech Republic is $22,762.2 in 2020. The economic growth the Czech Republic had was -6percent in 2020. The unemployment rate of the Czech Republic in September 2021 was 3.6 percent. The Czech Republic uses the currency of Czech koruna. The minimum wage for this country is 574.62 EUR per month.

The Czech Republic’s economic freedom in 2021 is 73.8, decreasing by 1point. The Czech Republic’s overall score for the economy is 14th from the whole European countries (45 of them) and even their number is above the world averages. Especially due to COVID-19, cumulative until 12/01/21, there were 8,407 deaths and the economy of the Czech Republic will be declining 6.5 approximately.

For the Rule of Law, people’s property laws have been assumably protected with 76.2 percent. The Judicial effectiveness is 56.8 percent so we can presumably say that the independence of the judiciary is well respected. The government’s integrity is said to be 64.4 percent so this rate is pretty responsive towards corruption allegations and scandals.

For the income rate, the top individual income tax rate has increased to 22 percent with the normal corporate tax rate of 19 percent. If we add the overall tax rate then it would be 35.3 percent for the total individual’s domestic income.

In 2019, the unemployment rate fell below 3 percent. What the government of the Czech Republic did was to increase agricultural subsidies in 2020.

References: KOSIS (통계청, UN, 대만통계청) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Czech_Republic https://www.oecd.org/economy/czech-republic-economic-snapshot https://www.heritage.org/index/country/czechrepublic https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_the_Czech_Republic https://www.oecd.org/economy/the-czech-economy-is-thriving-but-boosting-skills-and-productivity-and-transitioning-to-a-low-carbonproductive-model-is-vital-to-sustainable-and-inclusive-growth.htm

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Things to do in Mexico - Vol. 1 Monterrey

by Hangyeom (Erick) Kim

The Government Palace of Nuevo León in Monterey, Mexico

Image credit: Wikipedia

Mexico is a country with great history, since more than about 20,000 years ago when the first ancestor appeared in the region of current Mexico. By that means, there are lots of entertainments you can enjoy throughout the cities of Mexico. First, we are going to start with Monterey, the city that the author of this article was living in for 4 years during his middle and high school period.

Monterrey is a beautiful city with a perfect harmony of nature and man-made structures. The first place I want you to visit is Macroplaza. It is a square located in the historic center of Monterrey. Here, the first building that might come into your eyes is the museum of the government building of the state of Nuevo León. In this place, you will be able to get to know about Monterrey and Nuevo León as it consists of a detailed history of the state since the state was first established until the current results of the history. Also, there is a huge marketplace set in the buildings from the past. It is a good idea to walk around and have some meals near Macroplaza.

After that, you should visit Parque Fundidora by taking the boat of Paseo Santa Lucia. It is the manmade river set from Macroplaza to Parque Fundidora. As you can imagine from the word ‘paseo’, you can also walk from there to the park because the trail next to it is beautifully constructed. In addition, if you visit in January, there is a festival called Luztopia, where you will be able to see lots of light lanterns in many shapes as well as lots of street sellers. Parque Fundidora was first built for the purpose of a steel mill. However, after the owner of the company was bankrupt, its buildings were remodeled into a park: Parque Fundidora. Here, you can simply enjoy the green environment and get some rest; but also, you can go to the ice rink inside the park or get up to the observatory of the highest structure of the park by taking a monorail. Adding to that, there is always a huge amount of events going on inside the park. You should check the official website in order to check the schedule of them.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea The next day, you should visit Grutas de Garcia located 30km away from the city. You may rent a car to get there. It is a natural cave formed about 50 to 60 million years ago. As it was submerged under water during the prehistoric era, you might be able to see marine fossils such as seashells and snail shells on the walls. It is recommended to take a monorail to get up to the entrance because it is located at quite a high attitude. You might have to take a jacket or something that will keep the warmth because it is a bit cold inside even in the summer. One thing that I am sure of about this place is that the view from the entrance of the cave is tremendous.

Grutas de Garcia

Image credit: Wikipedia

Another option, you can visit Bioparque Estrella which is located about 80km away from the center of the city. Here, you can see 60 species of animals and more than 2,000 populations of animals and enjoy aqua attractions. However, one thing that makes this place special is the safari. You can take a 30 minutes long safari bus tour, where you will be able to see about 500 animals with a variety of species such as buffalos, deers, giraffes, and so on running on the extensive earth of Mexico. I still can’t forget the sensation I felt when I first saw the never-ending horizon of the plain. I am sure it will give you unconventional experiences.

Thank you for reading my article and I will be back with a new article about other cities of Mexico later.

References: HMAP. (n.d.). Retrieved January 9, 2022, from https://www.hmap.co.kr/en/contents/view.php?scontinent_no=2&scountry_no=29&scity_ no&no=2192 Desconocido, M. (2022, January 1). Parque Fundidora (Monterrey, nuevo León). México Desconocido. Retrieved January 9, 2022, from https://www. mexicodesconocido.com.mx/parque-fundidora-monterrey-nuevo-leon.html Pereira, P. M. (2020, December 2). Grutas de Garcia: Rocas MIlenarias Que Parecen Vivas! viajaBonito. Retrieved January 9, 2022, from https:// www.viajabonito.mx/mexico/grutas-de-garcia-nuevo-leon/ Levy, P. G. (2020, April 17). Bioparque Estrella Lanza Promociones Para Poder Alimentar a sus Animales. Revista Travesías | Inspiración para viajeros. Retrieved January 9, 2022, from https://travesiasdigital.com/noticias/bioparque-estrella-lanza-promociones-para-poder-alimentar-asus-animales Wikimedia Foundation. (2020, August 10). Museo del Palacio de Gobierno. Wikipedia. Retrieved january 23, 2022, from https://es.wikipedia.org/ wiki/Museo_del_Palacio_de_Gobierno

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Zambian Culture

by Jihoon Christopher Ryu

Zambia is full of cultural aspects. With over 70 ethnic groups and 73 spoken languages, the Zambian Culture is extremely diverse.

Before the colonial period, Zambia’s diverse ethnic groups lived independently of their own culture. Most of this has changed with the increasing population and influence from western culture, but Zambian citizens still preserve their traditions and commemorate over 20 ceremonies and festivals annually.

There is a lot of singing and dancing in traditional Zambian music. The main instruments played are drums, thumb pianos, and the Kalimba (marimba or xylophone). Zambian music is a mixture of African, western, and contemporary sounds, and these sounds are used differently based on different ethnical groups.

In Zambia, artists express the tradition of Zambia in pottery, basketry, carvings, and stools. Nowadays, more materials such as metal, plastic, fabric, and other recycled materials are used.

References: https://www.victoriafalls-guide.net/zambian-culture.html

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Galapagos Islands of Ecuador

by Haelynn Kim

Bacha Beach in Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands are an Ecuadorian island that was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. In 2001, it was re-designated as a World Heritage Site, along with the Galapagos Marine Reserve. It's a volcanic island in the Pacific Ocean, 1,000 kilometers west of Ecuador's mainland, including 19 volcanic islands and numerous reefs. Isabella Island is the name of the largest island.

The Colon Islands, often known as the Galapagos Islands, have an area of 8010 square kilometers, similar to Jeollabuk-do in Korea. It has grown in popularity as a tourist attraction during the 1990s, and its population has risen to almost 26,000 people. The island's name, which means saddle in old Spanish, is said to be based after the back of the Galapagos land turtle, which can be found throughout the Galapagos Islands. Galapagos Island is isolated from the mainland and home to a diverse range of endemic species, including the Galapagos land turtle, Galapagos penguin, blue-footed and redfooted booby, and Darwin Finch.

The name Darwin is mentioned because Charles Darwin came on the Beagle in 1835 to get the idea of evolution. Galapagos Island has a hot climate because Ecuador is close to the equator, and there is a wide range of precipitation, therefore you can discover a variety of climates, from dry to rainforest climates. Crotch rain is common because to the Humboldt ocean current, which brings cold seawater around the island, and the El Nino event, which brings mild temperatures and showers.

References: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1/ https://www.britannica.com/place/Galapagos-Islands

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Traveling Spots of Mexico

by Hangyeom (Erick) Kim Mexico, located between the United States of America and South America, is a beautiful country full of diverse environments and old history. So, let me suggest three beautiful places to travel to according to my 4-years of experience in Mexico.

Firstly, let’s start with a well-known city, Cancún.

Cancún is already famous as one of the candidates for a honeymoon tour. During my four years in Mexico, I have visited Cancún three times. As the word “tropical region” implies, you will be able to see an emerald-colored sea accompanied by white sand beaches and palm trees. Additionally, lots of all-inclusive hotels built there will provide you with excellent services to help you fully enjoy your vacation.

Cancún

The city of Guanajuato

Image Credit: Hangyeom (Erick) Kim

Secondly, Guanajuato is a perfect city for those who like to take walks. Its historic center remained just the same as in the past when the Spanish conquerors built buildings in that region, so it is a beautiful place to take images and wander around. You can feel as if you are time-traveling to the past due to the many Spanish-style houses and the lack of modern buildings surrounding the places. In addition, you can take buses to visit San Miguel de Allende, which is considered one of the best cities in Mexico. (INSERT CITATION)

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

Image Credit: Hangyeom (Erick) Kim

Thirdly, even though there are a lot of cities that deserve to be written down here, I can’t let Mexico City go unnoticed. Just like most of you know, Mexico City is the capital of the nation, so you might feel different from what you have supposed in Guanajuato or Cancún. However, this city enables the perfect harmony of historical and contemporary areas. The best place to visit here is Zócalo, a square located right in front of the National Palace of Mexico. You might have seen or heard about it on the internet or in the news as the parade here on particular days in Mexico is world-famous. Also, there is a region called Grutas Tolantongo near Mexico City. Here you can relieve your fatigue by visiting a natural spa.

According to my experiences of visiting almost all the famous cities of Mexico, you must visit here once in your life. I hope you have an opportunity to visit Mexico in the future. Thanks for reading!

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

The Czech Republic’s economy getting better

by Seoyoung Sung

The Czech Republic had a big impact due to COVID-19. They had critical damage after the middle of 2020. However, after the vaccination, The Czech Republic’s economy got much better. The spread of infection has been less than before, and their economy is going back to normal according to Jeong Jiyeong who is the Czech Republic Prague trade center officer.

In the second quarter of 2021, GDP growth was 8.2 percent more than the year before, and what is more surprising is that they grew 1.0 percent more than the quarter-on-quarter. As the recovery of economic activities is resumed and, as a result, the amount of household consumption and total capital formation is increasing.

Since vaccination is giving a big hope to economic growth, once almost everyone in the country has gotten their vaccination, mass immaturity will be formed. Therefore, even if the spread of infection gets worse, the government of the Czech Republic has stated their stance that they will not be closing the stores or schools. Yet, as the mutant viruses have a serious impact of risking the economy, the economic growth is still having the risks.

The unemployment rate was 3.4 percent when the COVID-19 has first started. After all, the current unemployment rate is 3.0 percent which decreased about 0.4 percent. The unemployment rate in the second quarter of 2021 was 3.0%, down from the previous quarter (3.4%) for the first time since COVID-19 (Jung 1). During the pandemic of COVID-19, the government of the Czech Republic has done many works to keep the economy safe such as wage preservation and outflow of foreign workers.

Consequently, the companies are trying to hire more workers. As the economic activities continue, the government of the Czech Republic is looking forward to seeing a lower unemployment rate.

References: Jung Jiyeon. “회복세에 들어서는 체코 경제 동향 및 전망 - 경제·무역 - Kotra 해외시장뉴스.” Czech Economic Trends and Prospects for Recovery, Kotra, 27 Sept.

2021, https://news.kotra.or.kr/user/globalBbs/kotranews/3/globalBbsDataView.do?setIdx=242&dataIdx=190897.

Sin Sangsik. “체코, 코로나19 여파로 경제성장률·제조업 생산량 '급감'.” Czech Republic 's Economic Growth Rate and Manufacturing Output 'Shrunk' in the Aftermath of COVID-19, 산업일보, 14 Apr. 2020, http://www.kidd.co.kr/news/215614.

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Zambian Food

by Jihoon Christopher Ryu Food is one of the most significant parts of Zambian culture. There is a wide range of food that we cannot see in other countries but Zambia. Traditional and original Zambian food are used in events such as pre-wedding, where a groom is treated to a buffet of traditional dishes from his bride’s family.

In this article, I will be showing you various foods in Zambia!

Image credit: Wikipedia

Nshima - Nshima, or Ugali, is made of corn that is processed into a white powder called “mealie meal.” It is created by mixing the corn meal with water, and more cornmeal is added until it creates a thick texture. Most Zambians enjoy eating Nshima with meat or fish and one or two vegetables. Many traditional restaurants and boutique hotels in Zambia sell Nshima for customers to enjoy.

Ifinkubala - Caterpillars in Zambia are called “Ifinkubala.” They are fried in oil, or boiled for a few minutes then fried in oil, and are served with vegetables like tomatoes or onions with nshima (introduced above).

Chikanda - Chikanda is often called an “African polony” (or African bologna sausage). However, it is entirely vegetarian. It consists of orchid tubers, peanuts, chilli, and baking soda.

Ifishashi - To make Ifishashi, pounded peanuts and fresh vegetables such as rape needs to be mixed. It can be added to other food items such as kapanta, sweet potatoes, and chikanda.

Inswa - Flying ants in Zambia are called “Inswa.”

They are fried in oil with their wings pulled off.

Inswa is famous for being rich in protein, and it can be eaten as a snack or with Nshima.

Image credit: Wikipedia

Image credit: Wikipedia

Vegetables - There are many different traditional vegetables in Zambia which citizens enjoy eating such as “chibwabwa” (pumpkin leaves), “katapa” (potato leaves), “bondwe” (a species of amaranthus), “impwa” (a species of eggplant), “lumanda” (a species of hibiscus), and much more.

Fruits - There are many different Zambian fruits that most people aren’t familiar with. It include wild loquats called “masuku” (tastes like sour apples), and “mawuyu” (baobab seeds).

Michopo - Michopo is a roasted meat usually cooked on the grill. It is commonly beef or goat served with onions, and tomatoes.

References: https://theculturetrip.com/africa/zambia/articles/9-traditional-foods-you-must-eat-while-youre-in-zambia/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

멕시코 마킬라도라 산업의 특성과 효용가치

by Brian Jun Kim

이미지출처:https://dream.kotra.or.kr/kotranews/cms/ news/actionKotraBoardDetail.do?SITE_NO=3&MENU_ ID=200&CONTENTS_NO=1&bbsGbn=403&bbsSn=403&p NttSn=19029

20세기 후반, 전세계에는 신자유주의의 광풍이 들이 닥쳤다. 미국, 영국과 같은 전통적인 선진국에는 각각 레이건 행정부와 대처 내각과 같은 신자유주의적 가치를 내세운 행정부가 들어 섰고, 그와 같은 국제적 흐름은 비단 선진국 뿐만 아니라, 전세계 각국의 경제 정책에 큰 영향을 끼쳤다. 미국과 지리적으로 인접한 멕시코 역시 이러한 흐름에 편승하여, 마킬라도라 산업에 대한 해외 자 본의 투자를 확대 허용하는 등 해외 자본의 투자 유치를 늘려나갔다. ​ 여기서 마킬라도라 산업이란, 마킬라도라 지역과 그에 대한 투자규정에 의해 투자되는 모든 기업을 총칭하는 표현이다. 본래 미 국-멕시코 국경 20㎞ 이내에서 외국계·외국인 투자기업이 보세처리 형태로 투자할 수 있도록 하는 방안으로 1964년 시작됐다. 당시 멕시코 정부는 그렇게 생산된 제품의 내수 판매를 제한하는 한편, 미국과 캐나다 등 국가로의 재수출을 조건으로 원자재 및 시설재 무관세를 도입하여 해외 자본의 투자를 적극 유치하였다. 하지만 마킬라도라 지역을 1973년부터 전국으로 확대 했기에, 마킬라도라 산업은 관련 투자규정에 의해 투자되는 모든 기업을 의미하고, 이후에 내수판매도 제한적으로 허용하였다. ​ 정리하자면, 마킬라도라 산업은 본래에는 북부 접경지대에 위치하고 수출을 원칙으로 하는 조립 가공업체를 일컫는 표현이었으 나, 넓은 의미로서 현재는 멕시코를 비롯한 중남미 그리고 카리브 해 지역에 입지하여 미국과 캐나다 전체의 조립가공산업과 노동 집약적 산업을 가리키기도 한다. 현재 멕시코에는 많은 해외 기업들이 적극적으로 투자하여 마킬라도라 생산 지구에 공장을 설립 하고 가동 중에 있다. 마킬라도라에 대한 참여가 적극적인 대표적인 산업으로는 자동차와 자동차부품 제조업이 있는데, 최근 코 트라 (KOTRA)가 발표한 자료에 따르면 자동차 업계에서는 관련 부품과 완제품의 관세율이 0~20% 수준이며, 자동차 부품 수입 의 경우 20%의 관세가 발생한다. ​ 현재 멕시코 전역에는 총 43개의 완성차 제조 업체들이 진출해 있으며, 대표적인 기업으로는 독일의 폭스바겐, BMW, 아우디, 일본의 혼다와 닛산, 미국의 포드와 GM, 그리고 대한민국의 기아 등이 진출해있다. 이들 기업들은 마킬라도라 산업의 장점으로 서 멕시코의 저렴한 노동력을 통한 가격경쟁력 재고, 원자재와 시설재 무관세에 따른 생산 비용 감소, 북미와 중남미 사이에 위치 한 지리적 이점을 통한 생산 기지 확보 등을 꼽았다. 마킬라도라 산업은 단순한 해외 기업의 투자와 그에 따른 가공 무역을 넘어 서, 멕시코의 경제와 사회 전반에 미치는 그 영향이 매우 큰 것으로 평가되고 있다. 현재 약 5,000개의 기업에 180만명이 고용 되고 있는것으로 추산되고 있으며, 그 중에서도 가장 규모가 큰 자동차 산업은 2020년 기준 총 투자 규모 39억 달러, 멕시코의 총 외국인직접투자(FDI) 중 14%를 차지, 멕시코 제조업 투자 중 37%를 차지하는 등 명실상부한 대표 산업으로 자리하고 있다. ​ 멕시코의 마킬라도라 산업은 세계 각국과의 무역협정, 관세 혜택을 누리며 해외 기업들에게 있어서 경쟁력을 재고할 수 있는 좋은 제도로 평가받고 있다. 마킬라도라 산업은 멕시코의 젊고 저렴한 노동 인구, 현지 산업클러스터 등의 활용, 그리고 외국인 투자관 련 연방정부 및 지역정부의 다양한 인센티브가 존재 하는 등 그 장점 덕분에 해외 자본의 투자를 지속적으로 유치하고 있다. 우리 기업들에게도 북미 시장에서의 가격경쟁력 강화와 제도의 다양한 이점을 고려했을때, 마킬라도라 산업에 투자하는 것은 북미와 남미 시장을 공략하는데에 있어서 좋은 기회가 될것으로 판단된다. 참고자료 네이버 지식백과 - 외교부, 2019, “멕시코 마킬라도라" https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=5795993&ref=y&cid=43970&categoryId=43972 (검색일: 2022/01/20) 네이버 지식백과 - 세계지명사전 중남미편: 인문지명, 2015, “마킬라도라” https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=2074261&cid=43965&categoryId=43965 (검색일: 2022/01/21) KOTRA 해외시장뉴스, 2021, “해외 자본 마킬라도라" https://dream.kotra.or.kr/kotranews/cms/news/actionKotraBoardDetail.do?SITE_NO=3&MENU_ ID=200&CONTENTS_NO=1&bbsGbn=403&bbsSn=403&pNttSn=190294 (검색일: 2022/01/21) KOTRA 해외시장뉴스, 2021, “마킬라도라 우리 기업" https://dream.kotra.or.kr/kotranews/cms/news/actionKotraBoardDetail.do?SITE_NO=3&MENU_ ID=100&CONTENTS_NO=1&bbsGbn=322&bbsSn=322&pNttSn=190018 (검색일: 2022/01/21) Britannica, 2021, “Maquiladora” https://www.britannica.com/technology/maquiladora (검색일: 2022/01/21) CFI, 2022, “Advantages of maquiladora industry” https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/knowledge/strategy/maquiladora/ (검색일: 2022/01/21)

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Mexico's Pet Economics

by Hayoung Kong

According to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) of Mexico, 70% of Mexican households have at least one pet, putting it second only to Argentina for the country with the most household pets.

Mexico is No. 2 in the world for the most household pets,70% of households have at least one pet.

February 15, 2019, Excelsior, Mexico news daily. ​ The number of companion animals in Mexico has been rising, reaching 39 million as of 2016. Mexicans raise dogs and cats the most, and they also grow a lot of new ornamental fish, rabbits, hamsters, and reptiles. In 2017, there were 28.719 million dogs, 8.872 million cats, and the number of dogs and cats alone reached 38 million. Recently, a culture of considering pets as family members has been created in Mexico, and young Mexican people prefer to raise pets instead of childcare because of the decline in marriage and fertility rates compared to the past.

From December 15, 2016, several states (Nuevoreon Colima Sinaloa Aguascalientes Guanajuato) began registering pets as family members officially, and it was also implemented in Mexico City and Mexico in January 2017. If you submit documents and fees worth $3 (50 pesos) to a government agency, you can register your pet as a member of the family. Public place parks, restaurants, coffee shops, shopping malls, and movie theaters that allow pets to enter are also increasing. In September 2016, the Pet-Friendly Theater, where dogs and owners can watch movies together for the first time, opened at the Cinema of Cinemaex Lomas Verde in Mexico City.

Parque México, a park in Mexico City, is preferred by guardians because there is a dog playground where pre-registered dogs can freely play in a designated area of 1,000 square meters. In 2016, the total sales of Mexico's pet goods market grew 8% year-on-year, of which dog food and goods sales rose sharply. Compared to 2011, sales of pet products at Mexican supermarkets and pet specialty stores increased by 79%. According to data from INEGI, Mexico's National Statistical Office, 238,460 tons of dog food and 121,787 tons of cat food were produced in 2016.

This is an increase of 4.3% and 6.3%, respectively, compared to the previous year. In Mexico, dog and cat food sales in 2017 amounted to about $2.204 trillion. Recently, in addition to essential items such as food defecation plate clothes, demand for unique costumes for Halloween costumes, beauty products, accessories, hair ties, earrings, etc., for pets is increasing, KOTRA Mexico City Trade Center reported. Although statistics are from five years ago, we can infer the current situation by referring to past statistics.

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As of 2016, Eem México and Nestlé México, affiliates of Mars, had the highest share of the Mexican pet market. The brands with a high sales share in the Mexican market are Pedigree, Whiskas, Pal, and Purina Dog Chow (21.5%) of Nestlé México Company of Mars Company Eem México (36%), and Ganador of Malta Cleyton Company. Consumers in Latin American countries usually purchase pet products from offline grocery store retailers. Still, in the future, e-commerce platforms are expected to be used as a significant distribution channel in the pet product market as the Mexican e-commerce market expands. Petsy is a Mexican e-commerce platform that handles more than 70,000 pet products, with an annual growth rate of 40% and 66% repurchasing. +Kota operates an online shopping mall for expensive premium pets targeting upper-class Mexican consumers, providing delivery services, hairdressers, business trips, and medical services.

According to the analysis of El Financiero, a significant economic daily newspaper, Mexicans spend an average of about $72 per month (about 14% of their monthly salary) on raising dogs, of which 65% pay on feed purchases. Pet Pal Boutique, a dog clothing manufacturer and distributor whose sales performance has been on the rise recently, has seen an 80% increase, in-store customers over the past three years. The average price of clothes for significant dogs is around $22. The premium market is expanding not only to feed clothing but also to organic soap shampoo handcrafted products.

According to The Green Corner, a Mexican organic product restaurant, organic soap for pets is sold at $1,720 per unit, three times more expensive than $57 per human organic soap. Recently, Mexicans have been increasingly interested in product services using IoT technology to the extent that dog walking applications have appeared. The Mexico City Trade Center said sales are expected to be promising if dog activity meters and automatic catering machines sold in Korea are imported because many smart devices using technology are not yet distributed in the Mexican market. Until now, direct individual contact with buyers is essential to enter the pet product market. There are no regular pet product exhibitions in Mexico, so it will be necessary to contact local distributors to find buyers directly.

Considering the Mexican's affection for pets, the service industry such as beauty salons, amusement facilities, hospitals, and hotels exclusively for pets is expected to grow further in the future. It is expected that items such as a high-end spa, a product diagnosis device for providing services and services exclusively for pets will also be promising.

References: (1)February 15, 2019, Excelsior, Mexico news daily (2)February. 19, 2018, 이학범, Dailyvet

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Christmas in Czech

by So Jung (Claire) Ohk

Old Town Square ON CHRISTMAS IN Prague

For a lot of us, December is cold with its breeze and the chilly air, and with the temperature dropping day by day. The one day that helps us get through the rapidly changing cold is, well, Christmas. As we await the jolly atmosphere with children laughing and giggling over their presents in the cold morning as the fire in the living room crackles with warmth. As we sit at home looking at the large Christmas tree decorated with wonderful decorations as we sip our hot cocoa.

Like most od s celebrating Christmas, Czech is no different this jolly day. However, the Czech doesn’t celebrate Christmas in the general way we all think, but they have their own unique way of celebrating this day. Stating with, the day before Christmas, Christmas eve. This is the day that is felt with excitement and anticipation. In Czech, Christmas Eve is named “Štědrý den“ meaning also “Generous day” as well. On this day, the Christmas trees are all decorated with traditional Czech ornaments, and it is believed to be one of the most festive dinners of the entire year.

On the day of Christmas Czech focuses more on the day of the dinner of Christmas. The 25th of December in Czech is named as “Boží hod vánoční”, meaning Christmas Feast. Of course, the supper the food of Christmas is one of the highlights. Christmas dinner in Czech is served until after the sunset. Traditionally the dinner is supposed to be served after the first star has come out the meal consists of dishes like carp, potato salad, sauerkraut, and fish soup. The supper is finished off with dessert. Mainly such dessert, mainly such dessert of apple strudel.

After dinner, everyone around sings Christmas carols and gathers around the Christmas tree. By then, the presents for Christmas are already around the Christmas tree. Unlike a lot of other countries, this event occurs after dinner whereas a lot of countries around the world take place in this event right in the morning. Another difference is that when apprehending the culture of Santa Claus, Czech children believe in baby Jesus with a similar concept of Santa clause that he leaves present through the window of their homes. However, unlike Santa clause baby Jesus has no abstract figure and is rather left to the imagination of the children.

Though Christmas is a widely known and celebrated holiday across the globe, we see different variations and cultures incorporated within the holiday from country to country, like how we see Czech’s method of celebrating Christmas. Acknowledging and respecting the differences of cultures and holidays are crucial, and we should learn how to embrace those differences.

References: "Czech Christmas" https://www.myczechrepublic.com/ https://www.myxzechrepublic.com/czech_culture/czech_holidays/christams. html#:~:text=Czech%20Christmas%20(V%C3%A1noce).Accessed27%20Nov.2021

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What you should know about Zambia by 류지훈 "Zambia is located in Southern Africa. Compared to its neighboring countries, Zambia is sparsely populated. However, 72 diverse and beautiful tribes inhabit Zambia's borders.

During the colonial period, merchants exported copper, ivory, and other resources for jewelry, textiles, and spices like salt. Tribes created a strong relationship with common economic interests, and this helped to create a new culture that has more nationality than being in individual tribes.

After Zambia’s independence in 1964, the Zambian government created organizations to promote and preserve the tribe's heritage. There were many private museums and villages to ensure the artistry and creativity would be preserved. Valued Zambian artworks include wood carving, basket weaving, and pottery.

The official language in Zambia is English. Tribe groups speak Bomba, Lozi, Tonga, and Nyanja.

Bomba is one of the most spoken languages with about two million native speakers. In addition, formal greetings are common in Zambian’s unhurried society.

Zambian citizens consider religion important in general. Holidays such as Easter and Christmas are celebrated annually, and there are numerous Zambian holidays such as Shimuenga and Kuomboka (the ceremony has been hosted for over 300 years)."

Image credit: Wikipedia

References: https://www.adventure-life.com/zambia/articles/zambian-culture

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Honoring the Forgotten Heroes of the Korean War

by Yeheun Kim

Logo of the Association of Mexican Veterans of the Korean War Image credit: Wikipedia

This year marks the 71st anniversary of the beginning of the Korean War (1950 ~ 1953). With six million combatants and five million deaths, including civilians, the war undeniably scarred and divided the Korean Peninsula in half but also freed South Korea from communist rule and enabled rapid development in Korea, becoming one of the richest and safest nations in the world.

During the Korean War, the UN forces from 21 different countries, including the U.S., the U.K., Ethiopia, the Philippines, and Australia, fought alongside South Korean soldiers against the communist forces in the north. Those 21 countries aided South Korea through troops, arms, food, and logistics support. To commemorate the millions of soldiers who’d fought and sacrificed in the Korean War and appreciate the aid of participant countries, the Ministry of Patriots & Veterans Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs annually hold various commemoration events, including memorial ceremonies, veterans appreciation events (invitation to South Korea), and establishment of war memorials. However, there are still hundreds of thousands of soldiers whose sacrifice in the Korean War has yet to be recognized and honored, including approximately 100,000 of Mexican origin who fought in the war as part of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Although the Mexican government did not officially support South Korea, hundreds of thousands of Mexicans and Mexican Americans joined the U.S. forces to support South Korea and sacrificed their lives in the war. Despite their honorable sacrifice, they have neither received enough recognition nor appreciation from the media, the Korean, Mexican, and American governments, and history. According to H.E Bruno Figueroa, the current ambassador of Mexico in South Korea, in his article titled, ‘Mexicans: Forgotten soldiers of 1950-53 Korean War,’ “the information about them (Mexican soldiers in the Korean War) and their actions is incomplete; there is still no comprehensive history of their contributions, granted that several research papers and veteran memoirs give some important account.”

To uncover and honor the sacrifice of forgotten veterans, the Mexican Embassy, with the help of the South Korean Embassy in Mexico, established the Association of Mexican Veterans of the Korean War last year (2020) and found several surviving veterans in Mexico. Their work continues in finding more surviving veterans and their families, conducting an in-depth historical search, and educating the public regarding their sacrifice. Much remains to be done, but their work has started to address the paramount task of uncovering and recognizing other numerous forgotten soldiers who contributed to the foundation of democracy in South Korea.

References: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2021/06/176_310485.html https://www.mofa.go.kr/eng/brd/m_5676/view.do?seq=321647&srchFr=&srchTo=&srchWord=&srchTp=&multi_itm_seq=0&itm_seq_1=0&itm_ seq_2=0&company_cd=&company_nm=&page=1&titleNm=

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Trdelník – Chimney bread

by Gaeun (Hannah) Cho What is "Trdelník"?

■ - Trdelník is a kind of European-styled cake made with layers of dough or batter, cooked on a tapered rotating spit.

■ - Trdelník is made up of rolled dough that is wrapped around a stick, then cooked on the rotating stick. It is topped with various ingredients.

■ - Trdelník is also called "Trdlo", "Torzkol" or "Chimney Cake" because of its appearance Origin of Trdelník ■ Trdelník has many origins. In the mid-19th century it was known as a Slovak dish, and in the 20th century as a Moravian dish. Also, it was once brought up as a Hungary dish too.

■ The word Trdelník is known as CzechSlovak origin; the root of this word is "Trdlo" which is the name of the wooden tool the cake is made on.

■ Nowadays it became popular in the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia.

As Trdelníks with various toppings and ice-creams were first made in the Czech Republic, it is most popular, served as street food over there.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Flavors You can choose any bread flavor, spread flavor and topping flavor to make your own Trdelník! < Sweet Trdelníks > 1. Bread flavor • Cinnamon, Walnut, Golden glaze, Coconut, Oreo, Cookie crumble 2. Spread flavor • Nutella, Cream Cheese Icing, White chocolate, Salted Caramel, Peanut butter, Chocolate, Strawberry, Raspberry, Mango 3. Topping flavor • Cream, Ice-cream

Image credit: Pixabay

Flavors You can choose any bread flavor, spread flavor and topping flavor to make your own trdelník! < Unique Trdelníks > 1. Pizza Trdelník 2. Sandwich Trdelník

References: Mesic, M. (2021, October 21). Trdelnik- the Czech winter delight. itinari. Retrieved October 21, 2021, from https://www.itinari.com/trdelnik-theczech-winter-delight-7icq. pedia, W. (2021, October 13). Trdelník. Wikipedia. Retrieved October 21, 2021, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trdeln%C3%ADk. Original, E. (2021, July 5). Menu. Eva's Original Chimneys | Toronto ""Doughnut Cones"" and Chimney Cakes | Kürtőskalács | Trdelník. Retrieved October 21, 2021, from https://www.originalchimneys.com/our-menu/.

Miricanvas Falteisek, M. (2016, May 6). The ISA journal""tredel-what?"" Getting a taste of prague. The ISA Journal. Retrieved October 21, 2021, from https://blog. studiesabroad.com/2016/04/27/tredel-what-getting-a-taste-of-prague/.

Take Twist, C. (n.d.). Chimney cake twist. Chimney Cake Twist. Retrieved October 21, 2021, from https://www.chimneycaketwist.com/.

Ada, C. (2018). Trdlo photos. Yelp. Retrieved October 21, 2021, from https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/trdlo-praha?select=gSJ-xIMBJOrY8iAls15uLw.

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Rare Zambian Wildlife Animals

by Chae A Lee Zambia is home to an incredible myriad of species and wildlife sanctuaries. Hundreds and thousands of mammals and bird species have found a home in the beautiful vast land of Zambia. Aside from the safari classics including elephants, lions, leopards, hippos and crocodiles, you'll also have the chance to find some of Africa's rarest animals. In this short yet interesting article, I'll be showing you the rarest wildlife animals in Zambia!

White rhino - This animal has been poached to near extinction for its magnificent horn.

Four white rhinos were successfully relocated from South Africa to the park in 2008, and there are now eleven white rhinos roaming freely through the park. They’re actually quite larger in size than the pictures you see!

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Image credit: Wikipedia

Black rhino - Zambia had the third largest black rhino population in Africa in the 1960s, but just two decades later, rampant poaching had wiped out these beautiful creatures. They were officially declared extinct in 1998, but their story didn’t end there. The North Luangwa Conservation Program (NLCP) made an outstanding effort to reduce poaching and have successfully reintroduced 25 black rhinos in four phases between 2003 and 2010, and the population is now considered viable.

Thornicroft’s giraffe - This giraffe is also known as the Rhodesian giraffe. It is a beautiful subspecies of giraffes found only in the Luangwa Valley of Zambia and can be identified by its slightly shorter height and unique coat patterns. This type of giraffe was even sent as a diplomatic gift to other nations centuries ago.

Image credit: Pixabay

African wild dog - These dogs are also known as painted wolves, and they are endangered species due to hunting by people who fear for their livestock. Fortunately, Zambia has conservation groups to protect the wild dogs.

They’re also one of Africa’s best hunters; with 80% of their hunts ending in a kill, they’re even better than lions, leopards and cheetahs.

Image credit: Wikipedia

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Image credit: Pixabay

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Lechwe - Zambia has two endemic species of the lechwe antelope - the Kafue lechwe and the Black lechwe. Both are vulnerable species due to poaching and are difficult to spot as they’re only found in specific parts of Zambia. The former one has a light brown coat with white undersides, with dark markings on their legs and shoulders, while the latter one is black and tan in color with white undersides.

Antelope - Zambia is home to a number of vulnerable or endangered antelope species.

The country’s fantastic conservation efforts have allowed antelope populations to remain stable in Zambia, and it’s a great place to spot the rare species. There are many species of antelope, such as the puku antelope, oribi antelope, and reedbuck antelope.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Image credit: Wikipedia

Crawshay's zebra - These animals live in the Luangwa Valley, the best place to see this rare animal. As a subspecies of the plain’s zebra, they are different from other species due to their narrower, denser black stripes that go all the way under the belly and down to their hooves. They also don’t have any lightbrown shadow stripes and have different teeth.

Cookson’s Wildebeest - Found only in the Luangwa Valley of Zambia, the Cookson’s wildebeest is a subspecies of the blue wildebeest.

During the dry season, the wildebeest make long journeys to the major waterholes to drink, and you can see large herds moving together through the woodland in search of water.

Cookson’s wildebeest are, in fact, distinguishable from other species by their lighter color and the clear markings on their neck and sides.

References: https://www.zambiaembassy.org/article/thornicroft-giraffe-made-in-zambia https://www.shentonsafaris.com/blog/our-endemic-divine-cooksons-wildbeest/ https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/african-wild-dog#:~:test=The%20African%20wild%20dog%20is,%2C%20white%2C%20 and%20yellow%20fur. https://www.especiallyafrica.com/conservation-miracle-rhinos-are-back-to-zambia.html https://www.worldwildlife.org/magazine/articles/walking-with-white-rhinos-in-zambia https://www.worldwildlife.org/magazine/articles/walking-with-white-rhinos-in-zambia https://www.wayfairetravel.com.inspiration/endangered-animals-of-zambia/ https://www.britannica.com/animal/black-lechwe https://www.britannica.com/animal/Kafue-lechwe https://www.zambiatourism.com/about-zambia/wildlife/antelope/ https://travel2unlimited.com/zambia-crawshays-zebras/

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Movies about Mexico : Roma & Coco

by Jun-seok Lee When delving into the culture of another country, completely foreign to one’s own, there is no better way than to watch movies from that culture. It allows one to become familiar with the people, places, traditions, and values of the country, while still having an all-around good time. As such, here are two movie recommendations for those interested in the culture of Mexico.

Roma (2018), directed by Mexican filmmaker Alfonso Cuarón, tells the tale of a housekeeper, Cleo, and her journey with the middle-class household she works for. The story takes place in 1970 in the Colonia Roma neighborhood in Mexico City and is loosely based on the director’s own upbringing in the area.

Consequently, the movie is a meticulous, accurate, and deeply personal recreation of Mexico City at the time. It functions to not only develop characters and progress plot but to invite audiences to live through the greater Mexican culture for the duration of the film; as a result, audiences will find that Roma is as educational and culturally significant as much as it is entertaining.

Coco (2017) is another enjoyable watch, which also simultaneously cultivates an understanding of Mexican culture in audiences. It follows a boy named Miguel as he enters the Land of the Dead in search of his great-great-grandfather. The story is derived from the traditions and beliefs of the Day of the Dead, one of the most significant holidays in Mexico.

Though the movie itself is an American production, efforts made toward its authenticity and respect for Mexican culture have led to near-universal praise and acclaim, which solidifies the film as a culturally accurate and significant film. Roma can be streamed on Netflix, and Coco on Disney+ for any who wish to be enthralled, educated and entertained by these two amazing films.

Image credit: Wikipedia

Image credit: Wikipedia

References: “Alfonso Cuarón.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., https://www.britannica.com/biography/Alfonso-Cuaron#ref1262084.

“Coco.” IMDb, IMDb.com, 22 Nov. 2017, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2380307/. ​Garza, Alejandro de la. “Alfonso Cuarón's Roma: The Real History Behind the Movie.” Time, Time, 30 Apr. 2021, https://time.com/5478382/romamovie-mexican-history/.

“Roma.” IMDb, IMDb.com, 21 Nov. 2018, https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6155172/?ref_=ttmi_tt.

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Velikonoce, Czech's Easter

by Yeonwoo Lee

Traditional Czech easter decoration

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Easter is a holiday that many countries celebrate, each in its own unique way. In Czech Republic, Easter is celebrated in an interesting way. Velikonoce, meaning Easter in the Czech language, comes from the expression velká noc, which means “great night” after the day in which Jesus Christ rose from the dead.

Czech people celebrate Easter across two days, Sunday and Monday. On Easter Sunday, people spend the day celebrating and preparing things like decorative eggs and braided whips for Easter Monday. Women, on Easter Sunday are in charge of decorating the eggs, and men, on the other hand, prepare somethings called Pomlázky, which are braided whips made from pussy-willow twigs and colorful ribbons. Also, the eggs are usually decorated in red color because it symbolizes the new life that comes with spring, and many people still wear the color red on normal days too.

References: https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/czech-easter/ https://travelsquire.com/celebrate-easter-the-czech-way/

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Zambia’s Culture

by Jihoon Christopher Ryu

Zambia is full of cultural aspects, and more than seventy ethnically diverse people live there. ​ Before the colonial period, Zambia carried out strong international economic relationships by exporting textiles, jewelry, salt, and hardware. During the colonial period, Zambia started to grow with the process of industrialization and urbanization. ​ The administration realized the importance of culture in a new nation's overall growth and began to address the issue of national identity. ​ Numerous people are trying to protect and spread Zambia’s culture throughout the world, and there are cultural villages to promote the artistic talents of Zambians.

Image credit: Adobe Stock

References: https://www.zambiatourism.com/about-zambia/people/culture/

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Grito de Dolores: Mexico's Independence Day

by Jun-seok Lee

Image credit: Adobe Stock

On the 16th of September every year, Mexico celebrates with El Grito de Dolores or the Cry of Dolores.

This cry is a re-enactment of the same cry made by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla as he proclaimed the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence on September 16th, 1810. But who exactly is Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla? And why is this event so significant?

Before Mexico would become its own nation, it was still New Spain, an entity of the Spanish Empire.

However, when Napoleon Bonaparte invaded Spain in 1808 and took control of the throne placing his brother on the throne, rebellions and revolts became rampant across New Spain.

When the movement for independence began to grow and tensions arose, Miguel Hidalgo, a Roman Catholic priest recognized later as the leader of the War of Independence, issued the Cry of Dolores.

He rang the church bells, motivated his audience to rebel against the current Spanish government, and made the first cry for independence, triggering the Mexican War of Independence.

Though Mexican independence wouldn’t be achieved until more than a decade later, celebrations occur on the date of the inception of the struggle, as it marks the moment that sparked hope and opportunity. This is why, every year, on September 16th, Mexicans all around the globe celebrate El Grito de Dolores.

References: Brady, Heather. “The History of Mexico's Independence Day.” Culture, National Geographic, 4 May 2021, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/ culture/article/mexico-independence-day-confusion-cinco-de-mayo. ​Cultura Genial. “Significado Del Grito De Dolores.” Cultura Genial, Cultura Genial, 14 Aug. 2018, https://www.culturagenial.com/es/grito-de-dolores/. ​“Grito De Dolores.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., https://www.britannica.com/event/Grito-de-Dolores. ​“Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., https://www.britannica.com/biography/Miguel-Hidalgo-yCostilla.

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한국 - 멕시코 수교 60주년의 의의, 양국 관계의 과거와 미래

by Brian Jun Kim

2022년 1월, 청와대 박경미 대변인은 해외 순방 중인 문재인 대통령이 한국-멕시코 수교 60주년을 맞아 안드레스 마누엘 로페스 오브라도르 멕시코 대통령과 접견 후 서한을 교환했다고 밝혔다. 또한 박경미 대변인은 1962년 양국 간의 첫 수교 이후 2005년 양국의 관계가 ‘전략적 동반자 관계'로 격상되는 등, 양국 협력이 지속적으로 확대되고 있다고 밝혔다. 멕시코는 중남미 국가들 중에서 우리나라의 1위 교역국이며, 멕시코 지역의 높은 성장 잠재성과 지리적 특성을 고려할 때 그 중요 성은 더욱 부각될 것으로 사려 된다. 멕시코 정부 또한 우리 정부의 서한에 화답하며, 앞으로도 양국 간의 정치, 경제적 협력을 더 욱 확대시켜 나갈 것을 밝혔다. 멕시코 오브라도르 대통령은 양자는 물론 다자간의 ‘전략적 동반자 관계'를 높게 평가하며, 앞으로 양국 국민을 위한 미래지향적인 협력을 계속 이어 나갈 것임을 밝혔다. 멕시코는 1980년대 초반부터 본격적으로 실시된 신자유 주의적 경제정책에 기반하여, 경제개방을 실시하여 지금까지 많은 외국 자본이 멕시코에 투자하였다. 대한민국의 기업들 역시 이 러한 흐름에 발 맞추어 멕시코에 많은 투자를 하였고, 현재 기아차의 공장이 설립되어 가동 중인 등, 많은 한국 기업들이 현지의 이 점을 잘 살려 양국 간 경제 협력을 도모하고 있다. 더욱이, 멕시코의 지리적 특성과 잠재성을 고려했을 때, 멕시코는 풍부한 생산 인 구와 천연자원, 대외 개방 정책에 따른 외국 자본의 자유로운 투자, 첨단 기술에 대한 높은 관심 등으로 성장 잠재력이 큰 국가이다. 양국은 경제 협력 뿐만 아니라 정치, 사회적인 분야에서의 협력 역시 지속적으로 이어오고 있다. 지난 2021년 4월 24일, 외교부 는 최종건 외교부 제1차관이 멕시코에서 독립유공자 포상 전수식과 6·25 참전용사회 출범식에 참석해 보훈·국방외교를 펼쳤다 고 발표했다. 당시 최 차관은 멕시코 출신 미군 소속 참전용사 4명에게 평화의 사도 메달을 전달하며, 현재 대한민국의 발전에는 참전용사 분들의 희생과 헌신 덕분이었다고, 참전용사들의 헌신과 희생에 깊은 사의를 표했다. 최 차관은 루이스 끄레센시오 산도 발 멕시코 국방장관과의 별도 면담을 갖고 양국의 경제 통상 분야 성과를 확인하고, 앞으로도 국방, 보훈 분야에서도 협력을 이어 나갈 것을 확인했다고 당시 외교부는 밝혔다. 멕시코는 UN군의 일원으로서 한국전쟁에 참전한 국가이며, 지난 1962년 수교 이 래로 양국 간의 관계는 각각 아시아와 중남미의 중요한 교역 파트너로서, 또한 전략적 동반자 관계로서 지금까지 세밀한 협력을 이어오고 있다. 앞으로도 양국 간의 교역과 협력이 더욱 확대되기를 기대한다.

References: 뉴시스, 2022, “한국 멕시코" https://newsis.com/view/?id=NISX20220126_0001738414&cID=10301&pID=10300 (검색일: 2022/01/30) 파이낸셜뉴스, 2022, “멕시코 수교 60주년” https://www.fnnews.com/news/202201261407542819 (검색일: 2022/01/30) 머니에스, 2022, “멕시코 FTA” https://moneys.mt.co.kr/news/mwView.php?no=2022012615298092570 (검색일: 2022/01/30) 네이버 지식백과 - 외교부, 2019, “멕시코 경제" https://terms.naver.com/entry.naver?docId=5795955&cid=43970&categoryId=43972 (검색일: 2022/01/30) 뉴스핌, 2021, “멕시코 순방" https://www.newspim.com/news/view/20210425000071 (검색일: 2022/01/30)

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Background of Zambia

by Seonhan Kim

Image credit: Adobe Stock

Zambia is located in South Central Africa. The capital city of Zambia is Lusaka. Its population was 18,403,000 in total. Population in Zambia is not likely to be spread much out of the undeveloped territories of the country. Most of the population is concentrated in the place called Line of Rail. It is a railway that links Copperbelt with Lusaka which is the capital city. Zambia got independence from the United Kingdom in 1964.10.24.

Zambia is divided with other regions around them by the river called the Zambezi River. There are countries such as Mozambique around the southeast, Malawi at the east, and also Tanzania through the northeast.

They are usually around the lake regions like Lake Tanganyika. Also, there is a river that covers up the largest rift named the Luangwa River. Zambia is in a position eastward toward the Indian Ocean.

Zambia is divided into three main regions of agriculture. The first region is placed in the southwestern part of Zambia. There are major valleys around the site such as Gwembe, Zambezi, or Luangwa. It is mostly dry among the three regions. It contains low nutrients, organic matter, but has high acidity in the soil that is found. The second region that split up spans the central part of the country. It is divided into two different sub-parts. The Kalahari Sands & Zambezifloodplain, which is located in the west, is considered to have a good condition of the agricultural process. The last regionis located in the northernpart of Zambia. The soil is highly weatherd and leached and also has a low pH level.

Zambia is located in Africa, and it is around the tropical regions. Although Zambia is near those regions, it is considered a climate that humans can settle on. The very hot and dry season will be lasting from September to October in Zambia. It will reach its highest temperature during this season. Many different kinds of animals are living in Zambia. Diverse kinds of reptilesand birds settlein Zambia for their nests and habitat. The Bantu languages of the Niger-Congo language family are spoken by the majority of Zambians. English is the government’s official language and is used in education, business, and law. There are lots of folk cultures found in Zambia rather than pop culture.

References: “People of Zambia.” Encyclopedia Britannica, Encylcopedia Britannica, Inc., https://www.britannica.com/place/Zambia/People. 외교부.”국가/지역 검색 국가정보 (잠비아공화국): 외교부.” 국가/지역 검색 국가정보(잠비아공화국) 외교부, https://www.mofa.go.kr/www/nation/m_3457/view.do?seq=169&titleNm=국가정보(잠비아공화국)

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

Waterfalls in Zambia

by Chae A Lee

Mumbuluma Falls

Image credit: Wikipedia

Zambia, the hidden gem of South Africa, is not only famous for its amazing safaris and diverse fauna, but it is also widely known for its numerous crystal-clear waterfalls. Victoria Falls just happens to be the greatest and most famous one of all, but in this short article, I’ll introduce you to six other waterfalls in Zambia.

First, we have Mumbuluma Falls. This waterfall, 40 minutes (33km) away from Mansa town, beautifully cascades down in two steps on the Mumbuluma River. Locals believe that this waterfall is a temple for mythical spirits such as Makumba and Ngosa, who reside at the bottom of the falls. According to legend, the two spirits fell from the sky!

Second, we have Lumangwe Falls. Located in Northern Zambia, this waterfall has an astounding drop of 35 meters, making it look like a mini version of the great Victoria Falls. This waterfall is significant because it gives life to the small rainforest on the Kalungwishi River. This place is home to the snake spirit named Lumangwe, and people said that this snake spirit stretched from Lumangwe to Kabweluma Falls.

Speaking of Kabweluma Falls, this waterfall has many unique traits compared to the other falls. Its three powerful cascades make it look even more majestic, and it even has a permanent rainbow! Like the previous two waterfalls, Kabweluma Falls is deemed sacred to the locals. In fact, the locals say that they are the “earthly forms” of the snake spirits, who dislike having houses nearby. It is also historically significant because of the ancient paintings on the rocks beneath the waterfall.

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Chishimba Falls

Image credit: Wikipedia

Fourth is Chishimba Falls, a combination of three waterfalls and the longest one with a height of 20 meters. The location is ideal for tourists to visit because a campsite is situated in the East, while a rainforest sits in the West of the falls. The Bemba people of Zambia believe that the spirit of Chishimba lives below the waterfall, which is also considered a holy place where people pray and worship immortal beings. Additionally, a hydroelectric canal provides electricity and power to the neighboring villages.

Next up is Mutumuna Falls located above the previous Chishima Falls. Of course, like the locals within the area of other waterfalls, people believe in the spirits (spirit of Mutumuna). It is also said that the High Priest (named Chitemenwe) gives offerings and does worshipping within the waterfalls’ vicinity.

It is also a good place to camp due to its peacefulness and idyllic location quite far away and surrounded by forests.

Last on this list is Ntumbachushi Falls which pours down the deep blue Ng’ona River. This area was known to be a sanctuary of spirits when chiefs would go there to bathe and cleanse themselves of bad luck before inheriting the throne. Like Mutumuna Falls, Ntumbachushi is also ideal for camping.

References: https://www.zambiatourism.com/destinations/waterfalls/mumbuluma-falls/ https://www.zambiatourism.com/destinations/waterfalls/chisimba-falls/ https://www.zambiatourism.com/destinations/waterfalls/mutumuna-falls/ https://www.zambiatourism.com/destinations/waterfalls/kabweluma-falls/ https://www.zambiatourism.com/destinations/waterfalls/ntumbachushi-falls/ https://www.zambiatourism.com/destinations/waterfalls/lumangwe-falls

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

2021년 12월 23일 멕시코 대사관 견학 후기

(Reflection from visiting to the Embassy of Mexico in Seoul on Dec. 23, 2021)

by Seoyoung Seung

결론부터 말하자면 멕시코 대사관에 방문하여 멕시코라는 나라에 대해 한 시간가량 수업을 듣고 내가 가지고 있었던 질문들에 대 한 답변도 들을 수 있었기에 정말 뜻깊었다. 우선 대사관에 비자 인터뷰 이외에 방문해 본 적이 없는지라 사실 하나도 떨리지 않았 다고 하면 거짓말이다. 하지만 자유로운 질의응답시간과 관계자분들의 웰컴 인사 덕분에 마음이 편안해졌다. 나는 평소에 내 국가를 포함한 타국가에 대한 경제에 관심이 많아 gpa 상황이나 경제 관련 뉴스를 줄곧 찾아보곤 한다. 이번에도 멕시코에 대한 수입 수출을 포함한 경제 gpa와 잠재력, 그리고 경제 전망을 포함한 다양한 질문들을 준비해 갔지만 멕시코에 대한 프레젠테이션에서 나의 대부분의 질문들을 커버해 주셔서 마지막에 질의응답시간에 새롭게 렉처를 들으면서 생겨났던 질문을 하 였다. 나는 내 생일이 5월 5일 한국에서는 어린이날이고 멕시코에서는 cinco de mayo라는 기념일이라 멕시코에서는 5월 5일에 어떠한 행사로 기념하는지 궁금하여 질문드렸다. 멕시코에서는 간단히 밥을 먹고 함께 기뻐하면서 그날을 즐긴다고 한다. 예상외 로 너무나도 반갑고 자세히 답변이 감사했다. 또한 대사관에서 스페인어를 할 수 있는 친구들이 몇 명 있었는데 유창하게 스페인어로 대화를 할 수 있는 부분이 멋있었다. 내 4 번째 언어로 가장 배우고 싶은 언어가 스페인어인 부분도 많이 차지한 것 같기도 하다. 렉처를 통해 알게 된 부분은 멕시코와 우리 나라의 역사가 약간 비슷한 점이다. 예를 들어 멕시코도 스페인의 식민지 국가였고 우리나라도 일본의 식민지 국가였던 부분이 비 슷하다고 느꼈다. 또한 음식 부분에서도 내가 미국에서 살 때줄곧 가던 멕시칸 식당에서 불린 멕시칸 음식들이 실제로 멕시코에서 는 다른 전통적인 멕시칸 음식을 주로 먹는다는 점이 흥미로웠다.

멕시코에게 꼭 필요한 국가들을 설명해 주실 때 한국과의 관계도 언급해 주셨는데 현재 한국이 멕시코에게 4번째로 꼭 필요한 국 가라는 점이 굉장히 인상 깊었다. 독일을 포함한 거리상으로 더 가까운 국가들보다 우리나라를 더 필요로 한다는 점이 굉장히 흥 미로웠다. 다음에 또 이런 기회가 찾아온다는 주저 없이 또 참여하고 싶다. 이런 영광스러운 기회를 주신 호비 관계자분들께 감사 하다고 전하고 싶다.

by Chester Chan-Hyun Park 호비한국본부를 통해 멕시코 대사관을 견학할 수 있었던 아주 좋은 기회를 얻을 수 있었다. 멕시코 견학에 대한 공지를 보고 평소 에 멕시코에 대한 관심이 있었지만 아는 것은 많이 없었던 나에게는 더없이 좋은 기회라고 생각하여 바로 신청하게 되었다. 공지사 항에 적힌 대로 대사관에서 할 질문들을 생각하며 나름대로 멕시코에 대한 예습도 할 수 있었다. 추후에 알게 되었지만 난 실수로 대사관님께 할 질문을 준비하였어서 나중에 질의응답시간에 준비했던 질문을 하지 못하여 너무나도 아쉬웠다. 넘어가서 견학 당일 날 멕시코 대사관에 들어가기 전 너무나도 긴장되어 어쩔 줄 몰랐지만 막상 들어가서 친절하게 반겨 주시는 대사관 직원분들의 안내를 받으니 안정이 되었다. 들어가서 조금 기다리니 브루노 피게로아 대사님께서 들어오셔서 간단한 소개 를 해주셨다. 그리고 견학에 참가한 학생들 개개인에게 멕시코의 어떤 분야에 관심이 있는지 물어봐 주시면서 그 관심있는 분야에 대하여 유익한 정보들도 직접 제공해주셨다. 나는 평소에 큰 관심사였던 음식에 대하여 질문하였는데 멕시코 음식의 가장 베이스 인 또르티아에 대한 설명부터 식사문화까지 다양한 정보들을 정성스럽게 알려주셨다. 대사님은 바쁜 일정으로 인하여 먼저 떠나 시고 다음 프로그램으로는 멕시코의 기본정보, 역사, 문화, 한국과의 관계 등에 대하여 프레젠테이션을 들을 수 있었다. 특히 멕시 코의 식민지 시절에 대한 역사는 대한민국의 역사와도 많이 닮아있어 굉장히 인상적이고 공감하며 들을 수 있었다. 또 인상적이였 던 것은 멕시코와 우리의 외교관계가 생각보다 더 크고 중요하단 점이였다. 마지막으로 멕시코의 언어가 스페인어라는 점은 학교 에서 현재 스페인어 수업을 듣고 있는 나로서는 추후에 꼭 멕시코를 방문하여야겠다는 생각이 들었다. 프레젠테이션을 듣고 난 후 질의응답시간에서는 각자 학생들은 자신들이 궁금한점을 질문하였는데 멕시코의 유명한 대학교, 멕 시코의 기념일 등 다양한 내가 미처 생각하지 못했던 질문과 답을 들으며 유익한 시간을 가졌다. 마지막으로 기념품까지 챙겨주시 며 견학에 대하여 오래오래 간직할 수 있는 추억까지 만들어주셨다. 견학을 계기로 멕시코에 대한 관점이 더더욱 좋아졌고 다음에 도 이런 영광스러운 기회가 있으면 참여해야겠다는 생각을 하게 되었다.

68

Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

by Brian Jun Kim

우선 대사관 견학이라는 귀중한 기회를 주신 멕시코 대사관과 호비한국본부 관계자분들께 감사 인사를 드립니다. 저는 2021년 12월 23일, 서울 용산에 위치한 주한 멕시코 대사관을 견학하게 되었습니다. 홍보 대사 활동을 하면서, 한번쯤은 저의 담당 대사 관인 멕시코 대사관에 방문하고 싶다는 생각은 하고 있었으나, 처음 문자를 받고 견학 기회가 있다는 것을 확인한 후 정말 좋은 기 회라 생각하여 바로 참가 신청을 하였습니다. 저는 미래에 외교관이란 진로에 대해서 진지하게 생각하고 있기 때문에, 실제로 외 국의 대사관을 방문하여 견학할 수 있다면 단순히 저의 견문을 넓힐뿐 아니라, 앞으로 저의 진로에도 좋은 경험과 영향을 줄 수 있 다고 생각합니다. 견학 당일, 저는 호비 한국본부 인솔자님과, 다른 홍보대사 분들과 함께 건물 로비에 모여서 함께 멕시코 대사관으로 갔습니다. 멕 시코 대사관에 들어서자, 담당 직원 분께서 저희를 인솔하여 미팅룸으로 안내해 주셨고, 이윽고 대사관 담당자 분께서 반갑게 인 사를 건네셨습니다. 담당자 분께서는 밝은 미소와 함께 본인 소개를 하셨고, 간단하게 저를 포함한 다른 홍보대사 분들과 짧은 인 사를 나누셨습니다. 이윽고, 주한 멕시코 대사관 대사님께서 들어오셨고, 저희에게 멕시코에 대해서 어떤 관심이 있으신지 궁금 하다고 하셨습니다. 저는 그 질문에 대하여, 과거 제가 미국 텍사스 주에서 유학을 하면서 만난 멕시코 친구들과 경험한 멕시코 문 화에 대해서 말씀드렸습니다. 텍사스 주는 역사적으로 과거에는 멕시코의 영토였기 때문에, 지금도 많은 수의 멕시코인들이 살고 있고, 저 역시도 학교에서 많은 멕시코 친구들을 만날 수 있었습니다. 그 후, 대사님과 사진 촬영을 한 후에 저희는 대사관 담당자 분께서 준비하신 프레젠테이션을 경청했고, 그 후에는 간단한 질의응답 시간을 가졌습니다. 저 역시도 견학에 앞서서 간단한 질 문을 준비하였으나, 제가 준비한 질문들을 모두 담당자님께서 프레젠테이션에서 언급하셨기 때문에 아쉽게도 질문을 따로 드리 지는 못했습니다.

프레젠테이션을 들으며, 멕시코의 역사나 문화에 대해서 더욱 깊게 알게 되어 특히나 더 의미가 깊었다고 생각합니다. 멕시코는 본래 스페인의 식민지로 시작이 된 나라인데, 그 속에서 생긴 본토 스페인 사람들과 멕시코 식민지 사람들과의 갈등, 그 속에서 발 상된 멕시코의 독자적인 문화와 정신이 특히나 더 인상 깊었습니다. 더욱이 멕시코 역시 식민지 지배와 미국과의 전쟁 등 외부적 인 위협을 겪었기에, 한국과 멕시코 양국의 국민들이 서로의 역사에 대해서 공통점을 발견하고 서로 더 잘 이해할 수 있을거라 생 각합니다. 더욱이, 이번 견학을 통해서 멕시코와 우리나라가 서로에게 굉장히 중요한 무역 파트너임을 깨달았습니다. 멕시코는 북 미자유무역협정(NAFTA)에 속한 나라이자, 동시에 남미와 북미 시장 모두로 진출하기 용이한 지리적 이점을 가지고 있기에 특히 나 우리나라 기업에게 그 중요도는 상상 이상일 것이라 생각합니다. 많은 우리 기업들도 그러한 중요성을 인식하고, 현재 LG, 삼 성, 현대와 같은 국내 기업들도 이미 많이 진출해 있다는 사실도 알게 되었습니다. 우리나라의 경제는 수출 주도의 경제인데, 우리 나라의 경제에서 가장 중요한 부분을 차지하는 수출의 문제점은 특정 국가에 지나치게 의존도가 높은 것이라고 생각합니다. 이러 한 문제점은 지난 몇년 동안 일련의 사태들로 인해서 우리에게 그 심각성을 일깨워주었다고 생각합니다. 그렇기에, 멕시코와 같은 나라와의 교역을 확대하는 것은 우리나라 뿐만 아니라, 멕시코와 같은 교역대상국에도 도움이 되는 상호 호혜적인 일이라고 생각 합니다. 또한, 우리나라 사람들이 멕시코의 언어나 음식과 같은 문화적인 부분에 대해서는 어느 정도 알고 있다고 생각하나, 멕시 코와의 교역이나 경제적인 협력에 대한 인식이 부족한 부분이 아쉬웠습니다. 그래서 저는 앞으로 멕시코와 우리나라 간의 교역이 나 경제협력에 대한 기사를 작성하며, 우리나라 사람들에게 멕시코와 우리나라가 교역을 통해서 서로에게 어떤 도움이 되는지, 또 두 국가간의 무역이 얼마나 중요한지 더 많은 사람들이 알 수 있도록 노력하겠습니다. 지금도 멕시코는 명실상부한 중남미의 경제를 선도하는 국가이며, 풍부한 노동력과 젊은 인구를 통한 깊은 잠재력을 가지고 있는, 앞으로가 더 기대가 되는 국가라고 생각합니다. 일반 국민들 뿐만 아니라, 우리나라의 많은 기업가 분들도 이러한 사실을 알고 멕 시코에 대한 투자를 늘리고, 그를 통해 멕시코 국민들 또한 우리 기업들의 제품을 더 많이 구매하고 사용하게 된다면, 양국 모두에 게 큰 경제적 성장을 가져다 줄 수 있다고 생각합니다. 저는 앞으로도 멕시코 대사관 담당 홍보대사로서, 멕시코 대사관 견학 경험 을 잘 살려서 홍보 대사 활동을 열심히, 최선을 다해서 할 수 있도록 노력하겠습니다. 다시 한번 귀중한 기회를 주신 호비 한국본부 담당자님, 주한 멕시코 대사관 담당자님과 대사님께 감사 인사를 드리고 싶습니다. 감사합니다.

by Song Eun Lee

좋은 기회로 멕시코 대사관 견학에 참여할 수 있게 되어 정말 기뻤고 뜻 깊은 시간이었다. 평소 스페인어를 공부하면서 중남미 국 가들의 문화와 역사에 대해서도 공부할 기회가 많았는데 이 기회를 토대로 스페인어권 나라 중 하나인 멕시코의 다양한 역사와 문 화에 대해 탐색해보는 시간을 가질 수 있었다. 처음에는 멕시코 대사님이 우리를 친철히 맞이해주셨고 멕시코에 대한 전반적인 발표를 해주셨다. 평소 멕시코에 대해 자세히 알 아볼 기회가 많지 않았기 발표 내용들이 더욱더 흥미롭게 다가왔다. 우선 멕시코는 전세계에서 14번째로 크고 11번째로 인구수 가 많은 나라이먀 세계경제대국이라고도 불린다. 무려 4000년의 역사를 자랑하는 나라이며 The Olmec civilization--> The Maya civilization--> 300 years of the spanish colony--> Independence 등의 역사 배경이 존재한다. 멕시코가 스페인으 로부터 독립을 이루기 전까지는 ‘NEUVA ESPAÑA’(새로운 스페인)이라고 불렸다는 점이 신기했다. 우리나라와 멕시코가 처 음 접점이 생긴 시점은 바로 1962년으로 알려져 있으며, 내년이면 벌써 60주년이 된다고 한다. 멕시코 땅을 대한민국 국민이 처 음으로 밟은 것으로 알려진 것은 1905년이며 약 1000명의 사람들이 멕시코의 농업에 종사하기 위해 이민을 간 것이었다. 현재 는 약 2만명의 한국인이 멕시코에 거주하는 것으로 알려져 있고 우리나라에는 약 800명의 멕시코인들이 살고 있다는 사실을 배 울 수 있었다. 주로 유학생과 직장인이 대부분이고 부부 중 한명이 한국인인 경우 한국에 와서 사는 경우도 존재한다고 한다. 놀랍 게도 대한민국은 멕시코의 4번째로 가장 영향력이 있는 경제 파트너이며 이는 지속적으로 이어질 것으로 보인다!

12/23 멕시코 대사관 견학을 통해 나는 평소 관심이 많았던 스페인어권 나라 중 하나인 멕시코에 대해 자세히 알아볼 수 있는 시 간을 가졌기에 기뼜다. 다음에 또 기회가 된다면 멕시코 혹은 다른 중남미 나라에 대해 더 알아보는 시간을 가지고 싶다.

Issue 7

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea The 51st Anniversary of the Independence and National Day of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh 지난 3월 28일 주한 방글라데시 대사관 주최로 롯데호텔 서울에서 “Anniversary of the Independence and National Day of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh” 기념 행사가 열렸습니다. 각국의 주한 외국대사와 대사 부인, 외교관들을 비롯해 각계 각층의 많은 내외귀빈들이 참석하여 행사를 함께 지켜보았습니다. 방글라데시는 국부 봉고본두 셰이크 무지부르 라흐만의 리더십으로, 9개월간의 긴 유혈 전쟁을 겪은 후 1971년 독립을 성취했습 니다. 방글라데시는 오랜 염원인 ‘소나 방글라(골든 방글라)’라는 차별, 예속, 불평등이 없고 번영하는 독립국가를 추구하며, 방글 라데시 건국의 아버지, 국부로 불리는 라흐만의 뛰어난 정치적 수완으로 독립을 성공적으로 이끌어내었습니다. 이날 행사는 방글라데시의 독립을 기념하는 National Day를 맞아 국부 봉고본두 셰이크 무지부르 라흐만과 방글라데시의 독립 을 위해 희생한 3백만 순교자들에게 경의를 표하고 독립전쟁 중 지지와 공감을 보내주었던 전세계 우방국들에게 감사의 마음을 전하는 뜻깊은 자리로 기념행사를 주최한 주한방글라데시 대사관의 초청으로 이날 호비한국본부도 함께 자리를 하게 되었습니다. 최근 새로 부임하신 주한 방글라데시 신임 대사님의 Welcoming Speech를 통해 방글라데시가 최근 2011년부터 연간 6% GDP 성장률을 가속화하고 코로나 직전인 2019년에는 8.15%에 이르는 등 가장 빠른 경제 성장을 이루어낸 국가로 변모하고 있음을 알 수 있었는데요, 특히 방글라데시 투자국 중 한국이 최상위 5개국에 속할만큼 우리 나라와 돈독한 상호 호혜적인 협력 관계를 이 루어가고 있음을 알게 되었습니다. 최근에는 한국의 유명 대기업들이 휴대폰, 자동차, 가전제품 생산을 위해 방글라데시에 제조 공장을 착수 중인만큼 앞으로 상호보완적인 양국 경제는 더욱 큰 잠재성을 보여주고 있어 기대가 되었습니다. 호비한국본부 역시 2018년부터 주한 방글라데시 대사관과 함께 한국 청소년들을 위한 홍보대사 프로젝트를 지속해오면서 양국 의 협력이 더욱 기쁘게 느껴졌습니다. 기념행사 후 방글라데시 전통 음악과 춤 공연도 있었는데요, 한국의 전통 춤과 음악도 함께 어어져서 양국의 전통예술을 함께 즐길 수 있는 즐거운 시간이었습니다. 행사를 마치고 나가는길에 방글라데시의 특산품과 공예 품도 함께 구경할 수 있었습니다. 방글라데시 대사관에서 홍보대사로 임명되어 활동중인 우리 홍보대사 학생들도 앞으로 방글라데시에 더욱 관심을 가지고 활발 한 활동을 통해 양국의 교류에 많은 기여할 수 있기를 바랍니다. 다시 한 번 뜻깊은 행사에 초대해주신 주한 방글라데시 대사관에 깊은 감사를 드립니다.

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Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

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Issue 7

71

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

니자미는 간자에서 태어났다. 일반적으로 그가 태어난 해는 1141년으로 추정된다. 그의 시 호스로와 시린에 담긴 자서전적 정보를 분석하면 이 시인이 태어난 달과 연도를 확인할 수 있다. 니자미는 "이 책의 집필을 정당화하기 위하여"라는 장에서 다음과 같이 쓰고 있다. 내 별자리를 아십니까? 그 안에서 나는 사자자리지만, 나는 먼지로 만들어졌습니다. 그리고 만약 내가 사자라면, 나는 털실로 만들어진 사자일 것입니다. (니자미 간자비. 호스로와 시린. K. Lipskerov 옮김. Rustam Aliyev. Baku. Yazichi 서문과 논평. 1983. 페이지 71 발췌) 편집자 참고: 러시아어와 아제르바이잔어로 번역된 시들은 결함이 있고 시인의 사상을 충분히 반영하지 못한다.

별들은 내 사자의 운명을 예언했습니다. 하지만 내가 그저 털실로 만들어졌다면 그것이 무슨 소용이겠습니까? 난 적에게 맞서는 사자가 아닙니다. 나 혼자 힘으로 버티고 있으며, 버틸 수 있습니다.

이 두 구절에서 니자미는 인생의 변천에 대해 불평하지만, 다음 구절에서 그의 의지를 언급할 때의 글의 어조는 미래에 대해 낙 관적이고 희망적이다. 이 시인은 행운의 별 아래 태어난 자신의 운명에 감사한다. 그는 사자의 용기를 가진 사자로서의 운명으로 삶을 살 게 된 후, 아이러니와 영감으로 자신이 진짜 사자처럼 보이는 털실 사자와 같을 뿐이라고 쓴다. 이는 무엇을 뜻하는가? 이 표현은 잘랄 앗 딘 루미에게서 흔히 찾아볼 수 있다. 옛날에는 사람들이 공공 행사에서 공연할 털 사자를 만들곤 했다. 시인은 자신이 사자자리에 태어났 음에도 불구하고, 오히려 천으로 만든 장난감이며, 이는 바로 "사자"로 태어난 것은 무의미하다는 것을 암시한다. 그리고 나서 그는 진정한 사자는 적들과 싸울 수 있지만, 그가 할 수 있는 것은 기껏해야 자신과 싸우는 것뿐이라고 썼다. 이 구절들을 보면 시인이 사자자리에 태어났다는 것을 알 수 있다. 같은 장에서 그는 이 시를 쓰기 시작했을 때 자신이 40세였 다고 말한다. 당신은 40세이며 연약한 삶의 절반은 끝났고, 이 이야기를 읽을 때 즐거운 얼굴을 구기지 마십시오. (페이지 69) 편집자 참고: 40세는 성년의 나이다. 시인은 성숙의 나이에 도달하는 것은 새로운 생각과 생각을 표현하는 것이라고 암시한다. 니자미는 기원전 575년에 시를 쓰기 시작하여 576년에 완성하였다. 오백 년 그리고 일흔 여섯 년이라는 세월이 흘렀습니다. 아름다운 얼굴이 행복한 빛 속에서 나타난 것은 참으로 놀라웠습니다. (359쪽) 편집자 참고: 이는 비유적 표현이며, 시인은 여태까지 그런 시를 써본 사람이 없다는 것을 표현한다.

그러므로 이 시인은 서기 535년 사자자리 아래 태어났다는 것을 추론할 수 있다. 서기 535년, 태양은 1140년 8월 17일부터 22일 까지 사자자리에 있었다. 따라서 니자미는 1140년 8월 17일에서 22일 사이에 태어난 것이 확실하다고 할 수 있다. 위에 언급했듯, 니자미는 고대 아란의 수도 간자에서 태어났다. 그는 그곳에서 거의 평생을 살았고, 죽어서도 그곳에 묻혔다. 그러나, 그 후, 시인의 작품이 널리 인기를 얻었을 때, 그리스의 일곱 도시가 호메로스가 그리스 출신이라고 주장했던 것처럼, 많은 마을들이 니자미의 출 신 지역이 자신들의 마을이라고 주장하였다. 이 시인의 본명은 일리야스, 아버지는 유수프, 할아버지는 자키 앗딘, 증조할아버지는 무아이야드 딘이었다. 자키 앗딘은 "신앙의 순 결"을 의미하고, 무아이야드 피딘은 "알라의 지지"를 의미한다. 중세 동양에서 그러한 칭호는 원칙적으로 학자들과 성직자들에게 수여되었 다. 소문에 의하면, 그 시인은 귀족 집안에서 태어났다. 이는 니자미의 어머니 “쿠르디쉬 부인” (“라이사이코르드”)

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이 귀족가문의 후손이라는 사실도 확인되었다. 양반 가문 출신인 그의 외삼촌인 오마르는 "화자"라는 칭호를 가지고 있었는데, 이 칭호는 그 시대에 궁정 고위 관리들에게 주로 주어진 칭호였다. 아마도 그는 간자에 위치한 아타베이 법원에서 근무했을 것이다. 시인은 문 자 그대로 "말의 순서를 엮는 자"라는 뜻의 "니자미"라는 가명을 썼다. 편집자 노트: 이 별칭은 인터 알리아와 1001개의 알라 이름들과 연결되어 있으므로, 수학적 과학에 따르면 "니자미"("nizami")는 (“nun"+50+"za"=900+"alef"=1+"mim”=40+"yeh"=10), 즉, 1001를 구성하는 아랍 문자의 합이다. 그의 이름 "일리야스"는 102("alef"=1 +"lam"=30+"yeh"=10+"sin"=60과 "alef"=1"sin"=60)이며, 을 빼면 그 결과가 나온다. 그리고 일리야스(Ilyas)에서 “alef”=1와 “beh”=2, i.e. 3,를 삭제하면 99라는 알라의 아름다운 이름이 된다. 시인은 직접 라일라와 마즈눈의 쿠플렛에서 다음과 같이 말한다.

내가 가진 "니자미"라는 별명은 천 한개의 이름이 포함되어 있습니다. 그리고 우리가 Ilyas에서 Alef와 Lam을 잘라내면, 우리는 99개의 이름으로 다시 돌아옵니다 1394 니자미가 받은 교육은 그 당시로써는 훌륭했다. 당시의 규칙에 따르면 일리야스는 집안에서 처음으로 교육을 받은 사람이였다. 5 살 때 그는 나중에 그의 작품에 반복적으로 인용된 성 코란을 배웠다. 그는 또한 쿠란 문학, 이슬람 율법, 예언자 무함마드의 이야기, 그리 고 “아다바”의 개념을 구성하는 모든 분야를 공부했다. 원칙적으로 부유한 집안의 후손들은 바그다드에 있는 유명한 신학 학교인 니자미야나 다마스쿠스, 메카, 또는 카이로에 파견되어 교육을 계속 받았다. 1150년대에 간자는 모든 나라의 위대한 과학자, 시인, 작가, 건축가들에게 선택받은 도시가 되었기 때문에, 니자미 는 고향에서 공부하기로 결정했다. 니자미가 언급한 책에 따르면, 그는 간자의 도서관에 보관되어 있던 다양한 과학, 번역, 고대 작가들의 해석, 아랍어, 페르시아어, 페르시아어 작가들의 시집들의 필사본 목록을 접할 수 있었다. 니자미는 산수, 대수, 기하학, 천문학, 화학, 광물 학, 의학, 논리학, 형이상학, 지리, 역사, 시학, 그리고 검증법을 철저히 공부했다. 그의 작품에서 알 수 있듯이 과학 분야에서 그가 이룬 가 장 큰 성공은 의학과 천문학이었다.

Astrolohy / Zodiac astrology circle / Dreamstime

Gamka City / Wikipedia

전문가들은 여전히 니자미의 다재다능한 천문학 지식에 놀라워한다. 그의 시 라일라와 마즈눈, 일곱 가지 미 등에는 천체를 나열 하고 전문적으로 특징짓는데, 이들 중 상당수는 망원경이 발명된 후에야 유럽 과학계에 알려진 것이다. 지구의 구면성, 태양 주위의 운동과 축을 중심으로 한 회전, 각 행성의 자율성(각 별은 자신의 지구와 하늘을 가진 분리된 세계), "영원히 회전하는 하늘"의 구조, 물질 보존의 법칙, 우주의 영원성, "4대 원소"의 본질 … 이런 모든 것들은 니자미의 호기심 어린 마음을 사로잡았을 것이다. 그는 심지어 토성에도 고리 Issue 7

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가 있다는 것을 알고 있었는데, 이는 나중에 갈릴레이에 의해 발견되었다. (G.D. Mamadbeyli. 니자미는 당대 최고의 과학자. 니자미, 기사 모음집. Baku. 1940. 페이지 103 등) 물론 그러한 과학적 사실들은 니자미가 밝혀낸 것은 아니지만, 그 사실을 안다는 것은 그 시인이 그 시 대의 모든 과학적 업적을 알고 있었다는 것을 보여주는 확실한 증거이다. 그의 고백에 따르면, 짧은 생애 동안 그는 토성의 고리에서부터 지구의 중심에 이르는 주제를 다루는 모든 책을 읽었으며 그는 "모든 학문의 지식의 바다"가 되었다고 한다. 동시대의 대부분의 사람과는 달리, 니자미는 점성학적 계산을 하거나 운명을 예측하기 위해 천문학을 공부했던 것이 아니라, 자 연의 신비를 이해하기 위해서였다. 그는 점성술이나 그 당시 왕과 통치자와 떼려야 뗄 수 없었던 점성가를 믿지 않았으며, 별이 한 인간의 운명에 영향을 미친다는 보편적인 믿음을 공공연히 부정했다. 니자미는 연금술사들도 신경 안 썼고 그의 시대에 연금술이라는 개념은 효과적으로 인간의 영적 발달 단계와 초월적으로 동일시되는 화학 화합물에 대한 신비적인 믿음을 의미했다. 연금술사들은 마법의 "철학자의 돌" 등을 찾기 위해 구리 를 금으로 바꾸는 등 하나의 원소를 다른 원소로 변형시키려 했다. 다른 측면에서의 연금술은 물질의 구조, 특성, 그리고 화학 반응에 대 한 질문도 다루었다. 니자미는 연금술의 첫 번째, 신비로운 측면을 거부했지만 두 번째 측면은 계속 인식했다. 그의 작품에는 전문 화학 용 어와 묘사가 자주 등장한다. 시인은 가짜 연금술사에 대해 "화학을 지배하는 자는 연금술사의 속임수에 넘어가지 않는다"라고 말했다. 니자미는 또한 의학에 대해 깊고 넓은 지식을 가지고 있었다. 그는 갈렌(갈레누스), 히포크라테스(부크라테스)와 같은 고대 의사 들의 업적과 이슬람 의학 및 약리학의 업적(자카리야 알라지, 후나인 이븐하크, 아비켄나)에 정통했다. 건강을 유지하고 병을 치료하기 위 해 니자미가 알려준 조리법과 조언은 매우 기민하고 분별력이 있어 오늘날의 의사들도 놀라게 한다. 시인은 특히 고대 세계와 아랍 칼리프 국의 역사, 이란 국가의 이슬람 이전 역사, 중국부터 지중해까지 넓은 지역에 흩어져 있는 많 은 튀르크 부족의 역사와 민족지학을 공부했다. 그는 플라톤의 공화국, 법학, 그리고 티메오스; 아리스토텔레스의 철학적이고 논리적인 작품; 아르키메데스, 유클리드, 헤르메스 트리스메기스토스, 밀레투스의 탈레스, 티아나의 아폴로니오스, 티레의 포르피리 등의 논문들을 철저히 읽 었다. 시인이 직접 말한 것에 따르면 그는 알샤바리, 발라드후리, 야쿠비, 이븐 쿠타이바, 발라미, 이븐 파들란, 알마스우디 등의 아랍어, 페 르시아어, 페르시아 작가들의 작품을 연구했으며, 이 자료들에서 그는 다른 나라들에 대한 지식을 얻었다. 니자미는 책 외에도 다양한 나라 사람들과의 소통을 통해 정보를 얻었다고 추정할 수 있다: 조지아인, 유대인, 그리고 루스 사람들. 그는 책뿐만 아니라 간자 시장에 모피를 제공하는 주요 공급원이었던 루스의 상인들과의 대화에서 루스와 그 사람들의 관습 그리 고 전통에 대한 깊은 지식을 끌어냈음이 분명하다. 스칸다르 이름에 언급된 슬라브어 제목인 ‘추드라’, ‘예레마’, ‘쿠팔’, ‘크냐즈’는 물론 루 스인의 풍습과 일상에 정통한 덕분에 시인이 얻은 이름이다. 작품에서 시인은 성서와 기독교 문학에 대한 훌륭한 지식을 보여준다. 그는 옛 날부터 국제적인 중심지로 유명한 간자에 살았던 그리스와 조지아 출신의 수만은 기독교 학자들의 도움을 받을 수 있었다. 또한, 시인은 “ 기독교 언어”를 알고 있을 가능성이 있다. 니자미의 작품에서 알 수 있듯이, 그는 시를 시작하기 전에 준비를 항상 철저히 하였다: 선택된 주제에 대한 자료들을 꼼꼼하게 연구하고, 이슬람 세계의 먼 곳에서 필사본을 주문하고 그것들을 비교했다; 시인은 주제에 대해 전반적인 지식을 다 갖춘 후에 시적 구술 에 착수하였다. 시인이 그의 지식을 넓히는 것을 막은 것은 그의 죽음뿐이었다; 그는 당시 진보적인 사상가들을 걱정시켰던 많은 이슈들을 에 대해 조사했다. 니자미의 과학적 관심사를 개괄하는 것은 상당히 어렵다. 그는 우주의 물질구조, 산과 바다의 형성 원인, 그리고 인간의 행동과 감 정의 가장 깊은 원천에 대해 고민하였다. 니자미는 보통 자신이 관찰한 결과를 과거의 위대한 철학자, 사상가들의 입에 올린다. 그러나 니 자미는 그의 호기심이 한계에 도달할 때 까지만 비판적인 추론을 계속 했으며; 그리고 그 너머에는 종교, 창조의 신비 등 상상할 수 없는 것 들이 있었다. 영원한 존재의 미스터리를 풀지 못한 그는 창조주의 왕좌로 눈을 돌렸다. 일라야스가 10대 때 과학보다 좋아했던 것은 시였다. 당시 터키어(튀르크어)로 불렸던 아제르바이잔어를 제외하면, 니자미는 아랍어와 페르시아어를 모두 구사할 수 있었다. 아랍어가 일상생활의 의사소통 수단으로 사용되긴 했지만, 아란의 전체 인구가 튀르크어를 사용했기 때문에 아랍어는 과학과 종교의 언어인 반면에 페르시아어는 시의 언어였다. 니자미는 고전과 동시대의 아랍과 페르시아 시인들에 의해 쓰여진 시를 공부하고 암기하였다.

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Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

그 당시에는 절대적인 규칙이 있었기 때문에, 니자미의 시적 추구를 시도하고자 하는 모든 사람들은 두 언어로 현존하는 모든 문 헌을 철저히 검토해야 했다. 최초의 문학 이론가이자 니자미 선배인 니자미 아루지 (사마르칸디)는 다음과 같이 썼다: “높은 기술력을 얻기 위해서는 초보 시인은 한 가지 조건을 더 충족해야 한다: “시의 절이 부드러워지도록 만드는 재능이 있는 사람은 과학으로 눈을 돌려 운율 을 공부해야 한다. 그리고 다른 종류의 과학은 이해해야 하며, 이름이 시간의 지면에 실리고 교사라는 칭호를 받을 자격이 있을 때까지 유 능한 교사의 도움을 받으며 이해해 나가야 한다. 그들이 고귀한 통치자로부터 받는 모든 상들에 대해, 그들은 통치자의 이름을 영구히 하 는 것으로 보답할 수 있다. 그리고 파디샤에 걸맞게, 그는 그러한 시인이 그의 봉사에 있어 두각을 나타낼 때까지 돌봐야하며 찬양함으로 써 그들의 이름을 널리 알려야 한다."

12세기의 주요 문학 이론가에 의해 명확하게 기술된 이러한 조건들을 파디샤나 술탄은 시인에게 신경을 쓰지 않았지만, 니자미를 포함한 모든 시인들이 엄격하게 준수했다. 니자미에게 시 예술의 정교함을 가르친 유명한 선생님이 누구인지는 현재까지 정확히 밝혀지지 않았다. 시인의 작품 이스칸다르 이름(아이크발 이름)이라는 시에 유일하게 나타나 있는데, 니자미는 “코이에서 온 이마드”를 현자이자 한 때 시적 분야에서 그를 도왔던 스승으로 언급한다. 문체와 언어, 그리고 고대와 현대 작가들의 숙달, 시학과 수식에 대한 다양한 지침과 더불어, 어린 일리야스는 자신의 설명에서 나타나는 바와 같이 단어의 8가지 함축된 의미를 이해하기 위해 설명 사전을 검토하곤 했다. 그는 종종 많은 희귀한 단어, 용어, 그리고 고유 이름의 어원을 설명한다. 니자미가 시를 쓰려고 한 것은 어린 시절이었다. 그의 독 점적인 시적 재능은 그가 빠르게 독자들에게 인기를 얻는데 도움이 되었다. 니자미의 섬세한 가잘은 아제르바이잔뿐만 아니라 중앙아시아와 이란 전역에서 유명했다. 그럼으로써 시인은 궁정에서 훌륭한 경 력을 쌓을 수 있었다. 어느 순간, 그는 이런 전망에 넘어갈 뻔했지만 뿌리치고 “어린애 같은 꿈과 자화자찬, 통쾌함을 뒤로” 했다. 그의 작 품에는 그가 한때 윤택한 궁정생활의 유혹에 굴복할 뻔했던 몇 가지가 옅보였다. 니자미의 재능을 시기한 궁정 시인들이 꾸민 음모는 분명 특정한 영향을 끼쳤을텐데, 니자미는 어린 일리야스를 비방과 험담으로 독 살하기 위해 수단과 방법을 가리지 않았다. 니자미는 그의 많은 시들 중에 바로 이 주제로 돌아간다; 자신을 싫어하는 사람들을 비난하는 이러한 동기들은 니자미의 첫 번째 시인 The Treasury of Mysteries에서 뚜렷하게 추적될 수 있다. 아마도, 시인이 여전이 궁정 경력에 대해 희망을 품고 있던 시기에, 몇몇의 옛 궁정 시인들은 시기심과 앙심을 품고 그에 대해 음 모를 꾸미고 있었을 것이다. 그러한 상황들이 웅장한 샤 궁전을 멀리하고 자신만의 독자적인 창조의 길을 택한 니자미의 결정을 강화시켰 을 가능성도 배제할 수 없다. 어쨌든, 니자미는 감각을 되찾고, 모든 것을 깨달았다. 세속적인 것은 순간적이고, 하늘은 그저 “늙은 과부”, 세상은 “노랗게 물든 과 일”이며, 세상의 모든 것은 썩기 쉬우므로 보리알 한 톨의 가치도 없다; 그러므로 사람은 부패하기 쉽고 일시적인 것에 애착을 가지면 안 된다. 시인이 젊은 시절 ‘세상적 열정’을 억누르려다 금식, 운둔, 절제를 통해 금욕, ‘영혼의 정화’에 몰두했는데, 니자미에 따르면, 오직 육 체적 본질과 기본적인 본능이 있어야만 “영혼의 위대함”을 알 수 있기 때문이다. 게다가, 니자미는 궁정 시인의 운명이 영주들의 변덕에 얼마나 불확실한지를 완전히 깨달았다. 그는 자신의 후기 작품에서 반복적 으로 이 문제로 돌아가 자신과 독자들에게 샤의 호의를 멀리하라고 충고한다. 그의 시적 사명을 깨달은 니자미는 그것을 이루기 위해서는 먼저 의지와 언론의 자유가 필요하다고 믿었다. 그는 단어가 좋은 대 의에 봉사하기 위해 만들어졌다는 것을 완벽하게 이해했다. 사람들 사이의 단순한 소통 수단으로 활용될 수도 있고, 악과 재앙의 근원이 될 수도 있고, 기쁨의 이유가 될 수도 있다. 말은 숭고한 예술을 섬기고, 인간의 기억 속에서 형태를 잡으며, 사람들 사이의 화합을 확립하 는 미묘한 도구인 미래 세대와의 관계의 수단이 되어야한다. 인류의 모든 업적, 즉 그들의 마음과 재능의 결실, 그리고 그들의 망상과 실수 들이 보존되어 한 세대에서 다른 세대로 전해지는 것은 오직 말로만 이루어진 것이다. 우선, 시인은 카시다(송가) 장르로 방향을 틀었다. 그는 당시에 무기력해진 이 장르에 삶을 불어넣기로 결심하였다. 표준적인 미화 양식을 제쳐두고, 그는 왕과 통치자들에게 현명한 조언을 하려고 노력하면서, 그의 카시다스에 자비로운 높은 이상을 전파하기 시작했다. 시인은 또한 존재에 대한 다양한 문제에 대한 그의 철학적, 사회적 견해와 의견을 묘사한다.

Issue 7

75

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

우리에게 전해진 니자미의 다섯 카시다스들은 “논쟁의 여지없이 그의 저서를 확립할 수 있다”; 그의 생애동안 다른 년도에 쓰여진 것이다. 카시다스와 함께 니자미는 가잘도 썼다. 니자미의 가잘은 그의 전임자들과 동시대의 시인들 모두 비교해봤을 때 현저하게 다르다. 니자미의 가잘은 훨씬 더 순수하고, 영감을 주며 인간적이다; 그것들을 읽으면서, 우리는 종종 구체적인 줄거리와 사랑, 분노, 슬픔, 그리고 사랑하는 사람과의 만남의 기쁨과 같은 실제 감정들을 볼 수 있다; 우리는 연인의 마음이 가득 찬 모든 것을 경험할 수 있다. 니자미의 가사는 전체적으로 생명을 보장하는 자연에 관한 것인데, 그는 이 가사가 사람들에게 생명, 아름다움, 독창성을 중시할 뿐만 아니라 인간의 영혼을 승화시키는 아름다운 선물인 사랑을 소중히 할 것을 촉구하기 위해 사용된다. 안타깝게도, 니자미의 서정시 디반은 1188년에 쓰여진 시 라일라와 마즈눈에서 시인 자신이 말하듯 실제로 존재하긴 했지만 우리 에게 전해지지 않았다. 몇몇 중세 전기 작가들에 따르면, 이 디반은 약 2만 줄을 포함하지만, 이 거대한 서정적 유산 중 작은 부분만이 남아있다. 시인은 당시 시르반샤의 일부였던 데벤트의 통치자에게 그의 교리적인 카시다스 중 하나를 바쳤다. 다라 무자파르 앗딘에게 바쳐 진 니마지의 카시다는 살아남지 못했다. 그러나 니자미의 다른 카시다스처럼, 적절한 시적 형태로 좋은 조언의 쓴 약이 들어있다는 것은 의 심의 여지가 없다. 통치자가 이러한 훈계를 좋아했을 것 같지는 않다. 같은 시기에 무자파르는 킵차크 부족 출신의 젊고 아름다운 여성, 즉 “하얗다”는 뜻의 이름을 가진 아팍을 선물 받았다. (Ye.E.Bertels. On the name of Nizami’s first wife. In the book: Nizami and Fuzuli.

Moscow. 1962. pp. 484-486). 누가 그녀를 데벤트 통치자에게 주었는지는 확실하지 않다; 그녀는 많은 킵차크 병사들을 즐겼던 그의 조지아인 친척들에 의해 제시 받았거나, 그 당시 볼가 강 어귀에서 흑해까지 광대한 영토에 거주했던 킵차크 족과의 빈번한 군사적 충돌 중에 포로로 잡혔을지도 모른다. 무자파르는 어린 포로의 아름다움에 유혹되어 그녀를 하렘의 크라운 주얼이 되어 첩으로 삼기를 원했다. 그러나 이슬람교로 개종 했지만 이전의 독립과 자유의 맛을 잃지 않았던, 자유를 사랑하고, 자랑스럽고, 고결한 아팍은 데벤트 통치자의 뜻에 복종하기를 거부했다. 어떠한 설득, 선물, 협박도 그녀의 마음을 바꿀 수 없었다: 그녀는 새 주인의 귀를 당김으로써 훈련시켰다. 이 선량한 노예의 마음을 정복할 수 없었던 무자파르는 시인이 자신을 위해 쓴 카시다를 위한 일종의 “수수료”로 시인에게 주기로 결정했다. 아마도 그는 두 가지 목표를 추 구했을 것이다: 시인을 처벌하기 위해 전투적인 노예(그녀가 시인의 얼굴을 할퀴게 함)를 세워서 지나치게 끈질긴 훈계와 교훈을 조롱하는 것과 동시에, 아팍을 가난한 시인에게 넘겨주어 그녀에게서 “비단한 옷차림과 맛있는 술집”을 빼앗아 굴욕감을 줄 계획이었다. 하지만 의도한 것과 다르게, 무자파르는 무심코 니자미에게 큰 호의를 베푼 것으로 되었다. 기쁨에 찬 시인은 아팍과 사랑에 빠 졌고, 나중에 세계 문학의 황금 연보에 정당하게 들어간 그의 시들 중 하나를 써낼 수 있었다.

1170년에 일어난 일이다: 니자미는 당시 결혼을 안 했었고, 그는 명백히 그의 자유와 일을 방해받지 않고 유지하기를 원했기 때문 에 결혼에 대한 생각조차 하지 않았었다. 그러나 아팍을 만난 후, 서른 살의 시인이 진정한 애착과 사랑의 감정을 경험한 것은 난생 처음 이었다. 니자미는 이 아름다운 튀르크족 소녀를 노예나 하녀가 아닌, 합법적이고 존경받는 아내로 그의 집에 들였다. 아팍은 니자미의 삶과 일에 중요한 역할을 했다. 위에 서 언급했듯이, 그녀는 가장 큰 튀르크 국가인 킵차크 출신이었다. 킵차크스가 볼가강과 돈강, 드네프르강, 흑해 사이에 펼쳐진 대시 티킵차크 (킵차크 들판) 지역에 정착한 것은 9세기 이후였다. 킴차 크족은 오랫동안 루스의 땅에서 폴로브치인으로 불렸다. 그들은 유 목민 생활을 했고 다른 튀르크 국가들보다 이슬람교를 늦게 받아 들였다. 폴로브치 여인들은 위대한 자유를 누렸고, 남성과 함께 공 적인 삶에 적극적으로 참여했으며, 심지어 그들과 나라니 싸우기도 했다. 아랍 여행가 이븐 파들린 (921 AD)과 이븐 바투타 (1330 년대)는 킵차크 여성들의 아름다움과 우아함에 주목하며 특히 자 유를 사랑하는 본성과 자존감, 덕성을 강조했다. 이븐 바투타와 다른 역사학자들에 따르면, 이슬람으로 개종한 지 몇 세기 후에 도, 대부분의 튀르크족 남성들처럼, 킵차크 여성들은 개방된 얼굴 로 밖으로 나가 충실한 이슬람 여행자들을 당황하게 만들었다.

Kipchak portrait in a 12th-century balbal in Luhansk / Wikipedia

시인은 아팍의 아름다움을 “눈에 빛을 주는”으로 묘사하는 것에 더불어 우아함, 민첩함, 도움, 헌신에 주목하며 그녀의 덕성과 순 수성, 독립성을 거듭 강조했다. 아팍은 교육을 받지 못했고 페르시아나 아럽어를 알지 못했으며 문학에 관심이 없었지만, 비범한 자연에 대 한 지혜와 내면 문화를 가지고 있었고; 그녀의 민족 전설과 노래, 관습, 그리고 영웅적인 전설들을 암기하고 있었던 것으로 시인은 묘사한다.

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Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

동료 부족들의 전통에 대한 아팍의 이야기는 나중에 니자미의 시, 특히 이스칸다르 이름으로 반영되었다. 아팍은 니자미의 운명에 큰 역할을 했고, 그가 시인으로 발판을 잡도록 도왔으며, 여성과 남성의 조화로운 관계를 숭고한 사랑과 가르침 에 대한 그의 개념에 기여했다. 시인은 그의 아들 무함마드가 태어났을 때인 1174년에 가장 행복한 사람이었다. 사랑과 가족의 행복이 가득했던 그 시절은 니자미의 인생에서 최고의 시간이었다. 그는 그의 작품에서 자신을 발견했고, 작가로서 완벽함을 얻었다; 그의 사회적 이상과 예술 원리, 윤리적, 미적 관점이 구체화되 었다. 니자미는 사람들을 섬기는 숭고한 인본주의 사상을 설파한 교리적인 카시다스뿐만 아니라 아름다운 가잘을 계속해서 집필했지만, 그 는 개인의 삶의 의미와 목적에 대한 그의 가르침도 크게 발전시키기로 결심했다. 그래서 1177년 상반기 즈음에, 니자미는 그의 첫 번째 시 Mahzan al-Asrar (The Treasury of Mysteries)를 쓰기 시작했는 데, 이 시에서 그는 처음으로 광범위한 예술적이고 삽화적인 자료인 인본주의에 대한 가르침을 추가했다 (‘Mardomi adamiyya’). 여태까 지 The Treasury of Mysteries를 쓴 해에 대해서는 의견이 공유되지 않았다. Ye.E.Bertels에 따르면, 시는 며칠 만에 쓰였고 1173년 또는 1179~1180년에 완성되었다. (Ye.E.Bertels. Nizami and Fuzuli. p. 126). 이 책의 첫머리에 있는 쿠플렛은 예언자 무함마드에 대해 언급하면서 정확한 글의 날짜를 정하는 데 도움을 준다:

559년 동안 잤잖아, 충분히 오래됐잖아. 해가 떴으니 어서 일어나 총회에 나가!

알려진 바와 같이, 예언자 무함마드는 서기 11년에 죽었는데, 이는 평 년의 574년에서 575년 사이에 해당한다. The Treasury of Mysteries 말미 에 나타난 바와 같이, 시는 1176-1177년에 완성되었다. 언뜻 보면 시인이 시 를 완성하는데 5년이 걸린 것처럼 보일 수 있다. 그러나 책의 마지막 부분에서 니자미는 시를 쓰는데 “몇 번의 아침” 이 걸렸다고 직접적으로 말한다. 편집자 참고: 그러나 이 표현은 비유적인 표현 (과장)으로 관심을 끈 다. 시인은 이 줄거리 내의 주요 줄거리를 마음 구조로 만들기 위해 몇 번의 아 침을 보냈다고 말하고 싶어 한다. 시인이 예언자에게 "무덤에서 일어나라", "559년 동안 잠을 잤다" 고 한 것은 예언자에 대한 극소수의 찬사 (승천에 관한 장에 있는 것 합쳐 서 모두 여섯 가지가 있다)가 이전에 독립적인 작품으로 쓰여진 이러한 찬송 의 상당 부분에 의해 설명된다는 생각을 확인시켜준다. 쿠플렛이 살펴지는 네 번째 미화는 젊은 정신과는 차이가 있으며, 시인의 시대 성직자의 진정한 본질 을 크게 비판한다.

V.Dastgerdi의 출판물과 많은 The Treasury of Mysteries 사본 은 559가 아닌 570이라고 명시되어 있는 반면, 일부 석판화는 사실이 아닌 552나 580 등을 제공한다. (Nizami Ganjavi. The Treasury of Mysteries.

Philological translation. p. 283).

Kipchak portrait in a 12th-century balbal in Luhansk / Wikipedia

시인이 이 시를 쓰기 시작한 것은 기원후 570년(서기 1174–1175년)이고, 그가 그 작문의 말미에 정확히 나타내듯이 572년(서기 1376–1177년)에 완성한 것으로 볼 수 있다. 아래에서 볼 수 있듯이, 1178년 즈음에 그 책은 이미 수취인에게 닿았었고, 이것은 그것이 더 일찍 완성되었음을 확인시켜준다. 그의 첫 번째 작품을 작업하면서, 니자미는 모든 단어들의 무게를 고려하고 조심스럽게 각 행을 다듬고 있었음이 명백하다. 비할 데 없는 니자미의 걸작은 소아시아 (현재 터키)의 작은 공국인 에르진잔의 통치자 (1166-1225)인 바흐람 샤에게 헌정되었 지만, 왜 바흐람 샤가 아제르바이잔이나 주변국들의 정치적인 면에서 중요한 역할을 하지 않았는지는 여전히 명확하지 않다. 당시 아제르 바이잔의 아타베이스의 별이 정치적 하늘을 밝게 비추고 있었고, 니자미가 그들을 크게 존경하고 있었다는 사실을 상기한다면 이러한 헌신 은 더욱 낯설게 보일지도 모른다. 따라서, 두 가지 가설이 제시될 수 있다.

Issue 7

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

첫째, 니자미는 특별히 요청하지 않는 한 절대 자신의 작품을 어떤 샤나 술탄에게 바치지 않았을 것이다; 비록 요청이 있더라도, 요 청한 사람이 어느 정도 긍정적인 판단을 받을 자격이 있고 공정한 통치자의 이상과 일치하는 경우에만 그렇게 했을 것이다. 둘째, The Treasury of Mysteries에 있는 힌트에 따르면, 니자미는 개인적으로 바흐람 샤를 알고 있었다. 시인은 이런 점에서 이 시를 헌정자에게 가져다주고 자신과 오래된 우호 관계를 재개하고 싶었던 것은 바로 자신이었다고 말한다. 그러나 간자가 "사방에 서 칼과 칼을 든 사자에게 둘러싸여" 있기 때문에, 그는 그렇게 할 수 없다. (Nizami Ganjavi. The Treasury of Mysteries. Philological translation. pp. 42-43). 이 구절은 1177년 셀주크 왕조의 자손들과 아타베이족들 사이에 대장 전 쟁이 한창일 때 쓰여진 것이다. 1177년 7월이 되어서야 군사활동이 끝났고, 7살의 토그룰 3세는 이라크의 술탄으로, 무함마드 자한 팔라반은 아타베이로 선포되었 다. 동시에 니자미가 그림을 지나치게 채색해 바흐람 샤에게 가서 직접 시를 넘기 고 싶지 않은 마음을 시적 형태로 정당화했다는 점에 주목해야 한다. 흥미롭게도, 니자미는 그의 시 The Seven Beauties를 헌정자에게 보낼 때와 같은 동기로 들 린다. 이 시인은 1163년 아타베이 왕 샴사딘이 이웃 기독교 봉건들의 습격을 공동으 로 물리치기 위해 바흐람 샤와 데벤트 통치자 다라 무자파르 앗딘을 포함한 모든 셀주크를 모았을 때 간자에서 바흐람 샤를 만날 수 있었다. (Z.M. Buniatov. The State of Atabegs of Azerbaijan. pp. 63, 67 and onwards). 니자미는 그의 삼촌 오마르의 지위가 충분히 높았기 때문에 간자의 아타 베이스의 궁전에서 좋은 대접을 받았을 것이다. 위에서 언급한 바와 같이, 그는 한 때 궁중 시인의 꿈까지 꾸었다. 아마 간자에서 바흐람 샤와 데벤트의 통치자인 다 라를 만났을 것이다. 시인이 선택한 또 다른 이유는 바흐람 샤가 시의 위대한 감 식가이자 시인, 작가, 학자들의 후원자로 알려져 있기 때문임이 확실하다. 동시대의 많은 시인들은 그들의 작품을 발표했고 그에게 웅장한 카시다스를 바쳤다. 당시 소 아시아의 궁정 역사학자 이븐 비비의 보고서에 따르면, 바흐람 샤는 젊은 니자미로 부터 이 시를 꽤 따뜻하게 받았다. 이븐 비비는 다음과 같이 썼다:

The Seven Beauties / Wikimedia Commons

"이 해(1174년–1178년)에 콰자 니자미 간자비는 가장 큰 진주로 만든 목걸이처럼 가장 큰 8월에게 헌정된 책인 마잔 알아스라 르를 썼고, 그것을 여왕 폐하께 선물로 보냈다. 왕은 그에게 그와 대화할 가치가 있는 나이브와 하집, 금으로 된 5천 디나르, 마구를 두른 말 5마리, 암블러 5개, 보석으로 수놓 은 비싼 옷을 보냈다. 그는 책을 매우 좋아했으며, 이렇게 말하였다: “가능하다면, 진주와 같은 구절을 가진 이 책은 세상에 내 이름을 영 원히 간직할 수 있기 때문에, 나는 선물로 모든 재산과 보상을 주고 싶다. 이 연약한 세상과 이 기만적인 시대에 좋은 명성과 수치를 보존 하는 유일한 방법은 작가와 시인을 찬양하거나 질책하는 것이다.” (M.Th.Houtsma. Histoire des Seldjoucides d'Asie mineure, d'après l'abrégé du “Seldjouknameh” d'Ibn-Bibi. Edition: Leude. E. J. Brill. 1902. p.57). 그러나, 시인은 이후에 고난과 극심 한 궁핍에 대해 불평한 적이 한 번이 아니었기 때문에 이 선물들을 받지는 않았다. 시는 20개의 대화로 구성되어 있다. 비록 명확한 논리적 규칙은 없지만, 시들은 주로 두 가지 문제에 전념하고 있다: 개인과 사회 이다. 개인에 대한 대화와 생각에서 시인은 인간 본성의 본질인 개인의 심리를 분석하여 사회에 대한 대화에서 기존의 질서를 재편하려는 자신의 생각을 표현한다. 시의 목적은 한 개인과 그 사회 사이에 절대적인 조화가 정착되고, 한 개인과 그 사회의 열망과 욕망, 갈망이 일치하고 하나의 목 표를 향해 노력할 때 비로소 진정한 행복과 일치할 수 있다는 것을 보여주는 것이다. 인간의 본성, 영혼과 신체, 그리고 그들이 이끄는 생물학적 본능과 열정에 대한 시인의 가르침은 그가 이상주의적 사회철학적 개념 을 창조한 기반이었다. 오늘날의 관점에서 순진하지만 이 우아한 역사는 토마스 모어, 토마소 캄파넬라 등과 같은 뛰어난 유토피아 사회 주의자들의 사상이 수 세기에 걸쳐 기대되었던 미래의 조화로운 사회에 대한 역사이다. 니자미는 지구상의 무질서, 불행, 재난의 근원이 사회적 불완전함과 대다수의 자연적 욕구, 욕구, 감정, 갈망을 억압하는 사회질서 라는 결론에 도달하여 무시해도 될 소수의 만족할 수 없는 본능을 끝없이 충족시켰다. 니자미는 지구의 무질서의 근원, 재난, 불우는 사회의 불완전과 대다수의 사람들의 억압된 자연적 욕구, 열망, 감정, 갈망이라는 결 론과 그로 인해 극소수의 만족 불가한 본능을 채운다고 결론을 내린다.

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Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

니자미는 왕과 권력자들에게 비싼 상품, 권력, 부와 상상속의 위대함은 행복, 즉 영원의 관념을 깨달을 수 없고 죽음 이후에 이러 한 부와 명예를 위한 기여가 물거품이 된다고 완강히 설득했다. 이들을 신성의 작은 부분과 불멸로 만들 수 있는 유일한 것은 “마르도미”, “ 아다미야”, 즉 인간미, 인본주의, 박애주의라고 한다. 니자미는 정의롭지 않은 독재자와 현명하고 정의로운 왕과의 대조를 이용한 교훈적인 이야기로, 첫번째는, 말로 얘기하는것 보다 는 신발, 옷과 음식을 직접 제공하고 노동에 정상적인 여건을 조성해야 한다는 것을 가르치고 있다. 책 전반에 걸쳐, 시들은 정의롭지 못한 독재자들을 농부, 도시 장인, 건축가, 학자, 숙련공과 같이 직접 상품을 생산하고, 자기 자 신의 땀을 흘려가며 생계를 유지하면서, 직업에 자부심을 느끼는 평범한 사람들과 일치시킨다. 시인은 건설적이고 창의적인 일이 가장 효과적으로 육체적 본능을 길들이고 백성을 위하는 대의를 다할 수 있다고 믿는다. 사람과 환경의 관계는 서기 8~9세기까지 거슬러 올라가면 무슬림 철학자들에게 흥미로웠던 것이라고 말할 수 있다. 서기 8-9세 기로 올라가면 사람들과 환경의 관계가 무슬림 철학자들에게는 흥미로웠다라고 말할 수 있다. 처음으로 이 문제는 니자미의 작품에서 공식 화되었고 예술적 해결책을 얻었다. 그의 책 “The Treasury of Mysteries "에서는 그것을 위해 한 챕터를 할당했다. 시인의 가르침에 따 르면 자연은 단일한 불가분의 유기체다. 이 유기체의 각 구성원은 창조자에 의해 주어진 자신의 기능을 수행한다. 이 사슬의 연결고리 중 하나라도 붕괴가 된다면 자연 전체에 해가 갈 것이고 인류의 운명에 치명적인 영향을 미칠 것이다. 니자미의 굉장한 시 숙달도와 재능이 가득 나타나 있는 “The Treasury of Mysteries”가 갖고 있는 지식적인 부는 무궁무진하다.

“The Treasury of Mysteries”는 곧 바로 니자미에게 많은 부와 명예를 안겨주었다. 그의 시의 평판이 높게 솟자, 다른 시인들의 작품과 비교가 되어 그들을 창백하게 만들었다. 그 때가 시인의 인생에서 가장 행복했던 때, 즉 출세하던 시절, 재능이 성숙하던 시절, 그리고 가정의 따뜻한 행복감과 가정의 안 녕을 만끽하던 시절이다. 하지만 그런 행복감은 오래 가지 못했다. 아팍은 살아있는 기억을 남긴 채 어린 아들 무해매드를 두고 1180년에 세상을 떠났다. 니자미의 마음은 찢어졌다. 시 코스로우와 시린에서 사랑하던 여성 인물의 죽음을 묘사한 니자미는 흥분하지 않고는 아직 읽을 수 없을 정도로 아팍을 고통으로 기억한다.

Khosrow Parviz and Shirin (Wikipedia)

Issue 7

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

아팍의 죽음 이후에 많은 시간이 지나선 후에야 그는 마음의 평온을 되찾았다. 그는 절대 그녀를 잊지 않았고, 많은 해가 흘러 고통은 무뎌졌지만, 고통 자체는 평생 그가 안고 살아갈 것이었다. 아팍을 잃은 후, 시인은 아들 무함마드를 매우 진지하게 키우면서 많은 사랑을 주었다. 니자미는 대부분의 시에서 “내 아들 무해 매드에 대한 조언”에서 그의 아들을 “내 눈의 빛", “내가 사랑하는 튀리크 여자에게서 태어난 가장 소중한 아들" 등으로 불렸다. 이러한 교훈과 가르침은 시인의 교육학적 관점을 이해하는 데 중요하다. 니자미가 아들과 젊은 세대에게 심어주고 싶었던 도덕적 기준은 여전히 놀랍도록 고귀하고 사회적으로 중요하다. 니자미의 교육학적 관점의 핵심 아이디어는 사회적으로 유용한 활동이 장점과 개인적 행복의 척도가 되어야 한다. 인생의 진정한 의미는 선한 행동과 업적, 그리고 사람을 위해 봉사하는 것이다. 사회적으로 유용한 활동은 인간의 존재 자체가 되어야한다. 반짝이는 것과 게우를 원하는 것은 이성을 부여받은 사람의 것이 아니다. 니자미에 의하면, 진정한 인간이 되기 위한 가장 중요한 조건과 사람을 위한 행동은 공부라고 생각하여, 끈질기게 아들에게 지식을 터득하라고 독촉했다. 니자미는 아들에게 과학의 중요성을 언급한 적이 한 번이 아니다. 니자미의 시에서 알 수 있듯이, 무해매드는 어렸을 때부터 시를 좋아했고 보아하니 아버지의 길을 따르고 싶어 했다. 그러나 시인 은 무함마드가 “신이 주신 진정한 재능”을 가지고 있지 않다는 것을 깨닫고, 그에게 야심찬 생각을 버리고 "더 유용한 무역"에 참여하라 고 충고했다. 우리는 무해매드의 향후 운명에 대해 믿을 만한 정보를 가지고 있지 않다. 그러나 1197년에 쓰여진 니자미의 가르침과 조언의 어 투에서 알 수 있듯이, 그는 무해매드의 삶의 방식에 대해 만족하지 않았다. 우리에게 유일하게 알려진 것은 1188년에, 시인은 레일라와 메 이뉴 라는 시를 샤반사 악시탄 I 에게 보내, 왕자가 무해매드를 데리고 가, “다른 사람의 도움이 필요한 것을 막고, 그의 머리는 앞을 보고 눈은 뒤로 돌리지 않게 하기 위해” 샤반사 악시탄 I 의 날개 아래로 거두길 바랬다.

Layla and Majnun / Wikipedia & Google Image

그의 아버지의 죽음 이후, 무함마드는 그의 시들 중 일부를 한 명 또는 다른 통치자에게 다시 헌정하며 "수정"을 시도했다고 믿는 몇 가지 이유가 있다. 두 개의 시로 헌정식을 다시 쓰면서, (Iqbal-name 과 The Seven Beauties) 그는 분명히 그의 아버지가 죽은 후 다 른 통치자들에게 헌정했고, 그 결과 바로 이 작품들의 다른 복사본에 다른 이름들이 등장하게 되었다. 무함마드는 많은 자손을 남겼는데, 그의 아들들 중 한 명인 (혹은 손자들) 마흐드 앗딘 니자미는 후에 그의 할아버지 (또는 증조 부)의 작품을 (그는 다 외우고 있었다) 관리하는 “전문가"가 되었다. 유명한 서지학자이자 책을 사랑하는 이븐 알 푸바티가 1305년에 그 를 만났다.

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Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

아팍의 죽음을 니자미가 회복하는 데는 오랜 시간이 걸렸다. 그는 그의 아들과 같이 살았지만 7년 동안 재혼을 하지 않았다. 그는 세속적인 일에서 자유로울 때마다 집에서 책들 사이에서 근면한 일을 하며 시간을 보냈다. 우리는 그를 방해했다는 그 “세속적인 일"이 뭔지 는 모르지만 (그는 종종 그것에 대해 불평했다), 사이드 나피시에 의하면 그는 농업에 종사하고 있었다. 예이 베텔스는 그가 가르치고 있다 고 믿었다. 그 시인은 작품에서 농업에 대한 풍부한 지식을 보여준다. 아마 바로 이런 이유로 아타베이 키질 아르슬란은 그에게 함두니얀 마 을을 선물했을 것이다; 우리는 아래에서 이 행사에 대해 이야기할 것이다. 에스 나피시의 제안이 더 그럴듯해 보인다. 코스로우와 시린의 줄 거리는 시인의 삶에서 일어난 사건들만큼이나 사회의 미적, 예술적 욕구들의 전체 발달 과정에 의해 결막의 결과로서 니자미에게 일어났다. 이 모든 요소들이 중세 최대의 서정 서사시를 탄생시키는데 결정적 역할을 했는데, 이 서사시는 그 부피와 장르 면에서 평범한 시 가 아니라 오히려 시의 품격이다. 아팍의 죽음 이후, 그는 길고 고통스러운 명상 끝에 니자미는 그녀를 자기의 시에 영구화시키겠다는 생각 을 했다. 그는 이 결정을 어떻게 실행할지 고민하고 있었다. 아타베이 자한 팔라반은 그에게 사랑의 시를 써달라고 개인적으로 요청하면서 그에게 후한 보상을 약속했다. 이 요청은 니자미 의 창의적 계획과 일치했기 때문에 니자미에게 적합했다. 시적 이야기의 주제를 선택하는 것은 전적으로 니자미의 몫이었고, 그는 그것에 대해 매우 기뻐했다. 시인이 완전히 새롭고 생소한 장르를 맡게 된 또 다른 이유는 새로운 미적 요구였다. 교육적인 장르와 대규모 서사시의 지배는 과 거에 남겨졌다. 독자들은 샤 혹은 왕에 대한 전설보다는 영웅들의 감정과 경험, 그들의 열정, 그리고 내면세계에 관심이 있었다. 니자미의 첫 번째 시 “The Treasury of Mysteries” 는 위에서 언급한 바와 같이 바흐람 샤의 열렬한 환영과 감정가들의 높은 평가를 받아 시인의 인기가 매우 높았다. 그러나, 당시의 새로운 경향과 정신을 느낄 수 있는 위대한 심리학자로서 시인은 “The Treasury of Mysteries“에서 자신의 사회적, 정치적, 윤리적, 미학적 견해를 전파하기 위해 사용했던 교훈적인 표현 형식뿐만 아니라 조화로운 사회 와 인본주의에 대한 그의 가르침의 예술적 구현에 관해서는 그의 독자들의 미학적 이상이나 세기의 취향과 완전히 일치하지 않았다. 니자 미는 자신의 경구, 권면, 호소, 조언이 아무리 완벽한 표현이라 할지라도, 사람들의 마음에만 영향을 미치고 그들의 감정을 배제한다면, 사 람들에게 자신의 메시지를 전달하기에 충분치 않다는 것을 깨달았다. 즉, 사랑 이야기 소설이 당대 독자들 사이에서 가장 큰 인기를 누렸기 때문에, 니자미는 계속해서 새로운 유형의 시를 창작하기 로 결정했다. 시인은 신작의 주인공을 뛰어난 개성으로 만들고, 인간의 내면세계와 몸부림, 인격 형성을 드러내며, 시적 표현을 통해 영혼의 충 동과 마음의 충돌을 보여주겠다는 목표를 세웠다. 시인 본인에 따르면, 그는 "모든 열정적인 사람들이 그의 시에 정을 들 수 있도록 그런 열정을 보여주겠다"고 결심했다고 한다.

1180년 여름, 그의 아름다운 아팍을 영원히 기억하고 동시에 아타베이의 요청을 들어주면서 니자미는 코스로우와 시린이라는 시 를 쓰기 시작했다. 니자미는 여성을 자신의 시의 주인공으로 삼고자 중동에서 널리 알려진 시린과 호스로의 이야기를 주제로 선택했다. 이 전설의 줄 거리는 니자미의 새로운 창조적 사고방식과 완전히 일치했고, 또한 그가 이상적인 여성의 이미지를 창조하고 모든 것을 정복하는 사랑을 미 마호메트를 꿈에서 본다", "예언자가 코스로에게 편지를 쓴다", "예언자의 승천", "인방의 비난" 등의 제목의 특별 장에 글을 썼다. 줄거리 의 논리적 전개와는 맞지 않는 이 모든 장들은 의도적으로 시의 끝에 묶여 있었고, 따라서 완성된 건물의 불필요한 부속문서와 닮았다. 그 러나 그가 쓴 특별한 장들조차도 시인을 공격으로부터 구하지 못했다. 무엇보다도, 니자미는 그가 소설의 주인공으로 여성을 만들었다는 소문으로부터 자신을 보호해야 했다. 니자미는 아타베이 샴스 앗딘 일데니즈(Atabey Shams ad-Din Ildeniz)의 수석보좌관이 토그룰 3세(Toghrul III), 무함마드 자한 팔라반(Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan), 키질 아르슬란(Qizil Arslan)의 어머니인 모미네 카툰(Momine Khatun) 이라는 사실도 잘 알고 있었다. 그러한 사실 때문에 니자미는 시를 쓰기 전에 무함마드 자한 팔라반(Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan)을 만나 그의 계획을 말하고 지지를 얻은 것이 당연하다. "마치 영혼처럼, 나의 텅 빈 피난처를 위해 떠나는", "마음이 바다이고, 모든 근원이 당신의 영혼과 논쟁 없이 뛰는", 니자미는 의심 할 여지없이 그의 삼촌인 이화자 오마르와 함께이든 혼자든, 궁정을 방문하여 무함마드 자한 팔라반과 이야기를 나누곤 했다. 그러나 니자 미는 "마른 대마가 뜨거운 불을 조심해야 하는 것처럼 샤를 만나는 것을 피해야 한다"는 것을 완벽하게 잘 알고 있었다. 촛불에 이끌린 나 방은 불에 닿자마자 타오른다. 보다시피 니자미는 평생 동안 의식적으로 아타베이스의 궁정을 피했는데, 이는 자한 팔라반의 불쾌감을 불러 일으켰을 수도 있다. 시의 맨 처음에 나오는 아타베이를 미화하는 챕터에서는 시인이 동행하지 않은 것에 대해 사과하는 것이 대표적이다.

Issue 7

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

자한 팔라반은 니자미가 에르진잔의 거의 알려지지 않은 통치자인 바람 샤와 그의 작가에게 큰 인기를 가져다준 니자미의 첫 번 째 시 "The Treasury of Mysteries"를 그에게 보여주지 않은 것에 대해 화가 났을 것이다; 니자미가 강력한 아타베이를 무시하는 것처럼 보였다. 니자미는 "당신에게 많은 것을 설명할 필요가 있다"며 "그러나 몇 마디만으로 하겠다"고 썼다. 당신의 미천한 하인 니자미가 오랫 동안 자리를 비웠지만, 화내지 마시옵소서." 니자미는 마침내 아타베이에 걸맞은 선물을 찾았는데, 바로 자신의 시였다. 그러나 니자미는 여전히 아타베이 자한 팔라반이 그 에게 충분한 신용이나 특혜를 주지 않았다고 생각했다. 그래서 술탄 토그룰 3세에게 보낸 메시지에서 시인은 아타베이에게 자신을 대신 해서 아타베이에게 말해달라고 부탁한다. "오, 세계 정복자여, 니자미가 수백 개의 소원을 어디서 얻겠습니까? 지금은 궁지에 몰렸으니, 그에게 친절을 베풀고, 그의 일을 정 리할 때가 되지 않았습니까?! 그는 평생을 일하며 사람들을 축복해 주었습니다; 나라 창고의 포도주를 한 잔도 마시지 않고, 우리에게 감 사와 축복을 줍니다. 그에게 한 번만이라도 선물을 보내 주십시오." *편집자 참고: 니자미는 아타베이로부터 어떠한 선물도 받은 적이 없다는 것을 보여주기 위해 이 표현을 사용한다. 아타베이는 니자미의 간청을 인정하고, 아타베이는 닌자미의 작품에 대한 보상을 약속했을 것이다. 니자미는 시를 열정적으로, 진심으로 썼다. 그는 1180년 초에 글을 쓰기 시작했고 1181년 후반에 글을 완성했다. 니자미는 그 시에 대해서 "좋은 책이며, 복사주의자들이 그것을 왜곡한다면, 그것은 나에게 큰 죄가 될 것이다." 라고 썼다. 시 속에 담긴 수많은 암시를 통해 작품 도중과 작품 후에 니자미는 큰 역경을 겪었음이 분명하지만, 시인은 “빵 조각을 대가로" 그 의 생활 방식과 시적 신조를 저버리게 할 수는 없었다. 그는 "밤을 태워 내 마음을 불타게 하고, 말의 화강암에 불을 지피는데 보냈다”며 시끄럽고 호화로운 궁정을 떠나 겸손한 삶을 살았다. 시인은 1181년 후반에 자한 팔라반에게 완성된 시를 보냈다. 그러나 1182년이 되어서야 아타베이에게 전달되었다. 그 시는 잘 받 아들여졌지만, 나중에 알게 될 아낌없는 약속은 결코 이루어지지 않았다. 그러나 시인은 그러한 처사가 낯설지 않았다. 시를 보낸 후, 니자미는 그 시를 계속 썼다; 그는 편집하고, 반복적으로 다시 쓰고, 조심스럽게 다듬고, 각각의 장을 수정하고 다 시 확인하였다. 두 번째 판본은 그의 세 번째 시인 레이리와 마눈 (Leyli and Majnun)이 완성된 후, 1192년에 완성되었다. 호스로와 시린 (Khosrow and Shirin)의 두 번째 판본에는 "코스로는 꿈에서 예언자를 본다(Khosrow sees the Prophet in his dream", "예언자가 호스 로에게 보내는 메시지(The message of the Prophet to Khosrow", "예언자의 승천(The Ascension of the Prophet)", "책의 가르침과 완 성(Instruction and Completion of the Book)", "토그룰 샤가 학자 니자미를 만나라는 요구(Toghrul Shah demands to see the scholar Nizami)", "자한 팔라반의 죽음에 대한 애도(Condolence on the passing of Jahan Pahlavan)” 등의 새로운 장들이 수록되어 있다. 시의 장들 중 가장 흥미로운 것은 니자미가 키질 아르슬란(Qizil Arslan)의 본부로의 여행에 대해 이야기하는 끝에서 두번째 부작 이다. 이 사건은 자캅카스 정치판에서 생긴 많은 중요한 사건들 전에 일어났다. 1186년 자한 팔라반이 죽자 키질 아르슬란은 술탄 토그룰 3세의 통치하에 아타베이(그대로 번역하면 “아버지 관리인”)가 되었다. 새로운 아타베이가 수도에 가는 동안, 문화적 의식 때문에 모든 저명한 시민들은 그의 양복을 받으러 갔다. 그 무렵 니자미는 이미 "최고의 시인"으로 인정받고 있었다. 그의 거룩함과 지혜에 대한 소문이 그의 영광과 함께 퍼졌다. 세속적인 번잡함에 멀리 떨어지고, 과학 적 추구, 사심 없는 창조, 절제와 금욕주의로 겸손하고 은둔의 삶을 살고 있는 그는, 그를 성인으로 간주하는 사람들을 이끌었다. 키질 아르슬란은 니자미의 매우 인기 있는 시와 사람들 사이에서 그의 권위를 존중하여 그를 만나러 오라는 초청장을 시인에게 보 냈다. 아타베이는 그 시인을 매우 존경하며 자비롭게 맞이했다. 그러나 술탄 토그룰 3세가 이 리셉션에 참석했는지는 분명하지 않다. 니자미가 도착했을 때, 새로운 아타베이는 즐거운 시간을 보내고 있었다. 비단옷을 입은 채 눈이 좁은 튀르크계 여성 가수들이 창 과 러드를 연주하며 니자미의 가잘을 읊고 있었다. 술잔을 기울이는 자들은 샤에게 와인을 대접하며 "그[샤]는 술을 마시고 있었지만, 그의 적들은 술에 취했다”. 시인이 들어왔을 때, 아타베이는 "시인의 터번이 아니라 관용"을 존중하여 음악가들과 노래하는 사람들에게 멈추라 고 명령했고, 하인들에게 술을 식탁에서 치우라고 시켰고, 니자미의 어깨에 손을 얹고 시인을 옆에 앉혔다. 니자미는 키질 아르슬란을 기리는 카시다를 읽는 리사이더(라비)를 초대했다. 그리고 나서 그들은 오랫동안 이야기를 나누었고, 시 인은 "왕들에게 맞는 좋은 조언"을 해주었습니다. 대화가 끝나갈 무렵, 아타베이는 호스로와 시린 (Khosrow and Shirin)을 칭찬하며 다음 과 같이 말했다.

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나의 형과 나는 둘다, 모유와 같은 음식을 그대에게 제공할 의무가 있다. 내 형은, 전 세계 왕들 중 왕이었고, 그는 왕이자 위대한 사람이었다. 그가 몇 년 동안 작업한 책 댓가로 보상으로 무엇을 주던가? 그의 몫은 너를 가난에서 구하는 것이었다고 들었다. 그는 그의 영역에서 두 마을을 당신에게 넘겼다. 그들이 당신에게 그 말을 들을 줬나요, 안 줬나요? 그들이 칸의 편지를 마을에 보냈나요, 안 보냈나요? (코스로와 시린(Khosrow and Shirin) 낱말 번역) 니자미는 이 질문들을 통해 죽은 자한 팔라반이 약속한 중국 비단, 남녀노예, 호화로운 마구를 착용한 말 대신 두 개의 마을을 그 에게 주었다는 것을 알아냈다. 하지만 관리들은 군주의 명령에 따라 행동하지 못했다. 니자미는 외교적으로 아타베이가 죽었기 때문에 그 의 명령대로 행동할 수 없었을 것이라고 대답했고, 니자미는 그의 군림하는 동생인 키질 아르슬란이 보상해주길 바라는 마음을 표현했다. 키질 아르슬란은 가장 빈곤한 마을인 함두니얀(Hamduniyan)을 허가하라고 명령했다. 나중에 밝혀졌듯이, 함두니얀은 조지아와의 국경에서 멀리 떨어진 곳에 위치한 "난로처럼 좁고, 파르상 길이의 반, 폭 반"의 끔찍한 폐허였다. 함두니얀은 이득은커녕 마을의 주민인 압 하지야인(Abkhazian)들이 “소작인이며, 생산물의 절반을 주인에게 임대료로 지불”하는 상황이라서, 오히려 주인이 상당한 투자를 해야했 다. 니자미는 나중에 "왕실의 선물" 덕분에 그를 질투하는 사람들이 크게 비웃었다고 말했다. 니자미는 어떤 샤의 보상이 아니라, 자신이 창조한 의무와 걸작을 실현하는 것이 가장 중요하다고 기억하며 냉정하게 이러한 타 격을 받아드렸다. 현실적인 고려 때문에 니자미는 1187년에 재혼했다. 그러나 그 결혼은 불운했고 1년 후 이름이 전혀 언급되지 않은 그의 아내가 세 상을 떠났다. 그는 다시 한번 결혼을 했지만, 그의 세 번째 부인도 1199년에 세상을 떠났다. 이 아내들을 유일하게 언급한 시는 이스칸다르 이름 (이크발 이름) (Iksander- name [Iqbal-name])이다. 여기서 시인은 아팍과 운명이 그에게 보낸 다른 상실을 회상한다. 니자미는 말을 행동으로 욺기는 예술가의 범주에 속했다. 그는 항상 그가 설교한 것을 실천했고 도덕적 규범을 독자들에게 심어주 기 위해 따랐다. 그때 당시에는 "명예로운" 남자들은 보통 동시에 네 명의 아내를 가질 수 있었다. 니자미는 이 관습을 반대했을 뿐만 아 니라, 무슬림 종교와 도덕에 의해 합법화된 일부다처제를 공개적으로 반대했다. 호스로와 시린 (Khosrow and Shirin)은 큰 반향을 일으켰다. 아타베이의 미화에 기여했고, 많은 경쟁 통치자들 사이에서 파문을 일으켰다. 1188년에 자한 팔라반과 키질 아르슬란과 끊임없이 다투던 시르반샤 악시탄 1세(Shirvanshah Akhsitan I)(1160-1197)이 간 자(Ganja)에게 특별한 사신을 보내 그를 기리기 위해 니자미에게 새로운 시를 써달라고 부탁했다. 시르반샤는 이 뛰어난 시인의 작품에 역 사에 남고 자신의 이름을 영원히 남길 원하며 다음과 같이 썼다. 마즈눈(Majnun)의 사랑을 기억하기 위해 희귀한 진주 같은 이야기를 만들어내기 위해... 이 이야기는 모든 소설의 샤(여왕)이 될 것이며, 당신은 이 소설에 말의 보화를 써야 한다. 이 처녀 신부를 페르시아와 아랍의 장식으로 꾸미시오. 나는 단어 감식가라서 예전 커플(couplet)과 새로운 커플을 구별할 수 있다. 순금[단어]로 지불한다면 넌 기적을 행할 거야 하지만 금동(billon)을 쓰면 아예 시작하지 않는 게 좋을 것이다. 생각의 틀을 벗어나서 네가 진주를 매다는 목걸이를 보아라! 우리의 헌신은 투르크주의(Turkism)에 관한 것이 아닌 만큼 따라서튀르크어 같은 단어들은 우리에게 맞지 않다. 고귀한 집안 출신은 격조 높은 단어가 필요하다.

(Nizami Ganjavi. Layla and Majnun. Philological translation. pp.53-54) Issue 7

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

여기서 우리가 집중해야 할 표현은“우리의 헌신은 터키즘에 대한 것이 아니다, [그래서] 터키인들의 단어들이 우리들에게 적당하 지 않은 것이다”. 그 당시, 니자미의 전기 작가들은 이 말에 대한 열띤 토론을 벌였다. 일부 현대 연구자들은 인용된 2행 연구와“이 처녀 신부를 페르 시아와 아랍의 장식으로 장식하라”는 표현을 근거로 니자미가 튀르크어로 시를 쓰려고 했다고 주장했으며, 아크시탄이 동의하지 않았다면 그렇게 했을 것이라고 주장했다. 하지만 또 다른 의문점은 누가 니자미가 다른 시들을 튀르크어로 쓰는 것을 금지했냐는 것이다. 다른 연구자 (비 다스트게르디와 예이 이 버털즈는 이 시인이 “가즈니의 술탄 마흐무드”와 술탄에 의해 그에게 약속된 서사시 샤 이름 상을 받지 못한 시인 페르도시에 대한 유명한 전설에 대해 (그리고 호스로와 쉬린과 다른 시 위에서 본 것처럼) 여기서 여러 번 암시 할 수 있다고 올바르게 지적한다. 다만, 시르반샤의 말씀에는 더 많은 조건이 붙어 있다. 그는 분명히 칠천지원수인 “거칠고 야만적인 터키 인” 아타베이스 무함마드 자한 팔라반과 치질 아르슬란을 물려고 시도하고 있다. 위에서 언급했듯이, 니자미는 무함마드 자한 팔라반으로 부터 호스로와 쉬린이라는 시로 큰 부를 약속 받았지만, 아타베이의 신하들의 잘못으로 그는 아무것도 받지 못했다. 아크시탄은 호스로와 쉬린이라는 시를 잘 알고 있었다: 진심으로 기뻐하며 받아들여졌고, 그리고 그 말은 높이 평가받았다. 그들은 많은 재산과 부를 약속했고 그것을 믿는 것은 불가능했다. 많은 중국 비단 더미들이 펼쳐져 있고, 공기 중에 먼지가 없이 모인 많은 사향. 그러나 시르반샤도 약속한 보상이 늦어지는 것도 알고 있었다. 시르반샤족은 고대 이란 왕조인 사산 왕조에서 왔으며, 자신들의 높은 기원에 대한 자부심을 가지고 있다. 만약 우리가 위의 말을 앞서 말한 것에 비추어 본다면, 시르반샤는 분명히 다음과 같이 말하고 싶 어했다: “우리는 높은 태생의 왕이며, 우리는 우리의 약속에 충실하며, 우리는 결코 낮은 태생의 튀르크의 일을 하지 않을 것이다”. 즉, 가즈 니의 술탄 마흐무드가 페르도시와 아티스 자한 팔라반과 퀴질 알스란에게 한 것이다. 그러니 우리가 부탁하는 시에서 ‘거친’, ‘야만’, ‘튀르 크어’같은 단어보다는 우리 고귀한 가무네 어울리는 고상한 단어를 써주세요.” 시인은 다양한 나라의 문학, 과학, 철학에 조예가 깊어 당대의 진보적인 인물 중 한 명이 되었다. 니자미는 동양(아랍, 이란, 중 국)과 유럽(그리스, 로마)의 문화를 존중했다. 그는 국제주의자였고, 어떤 국가 배타주의 설교에도 익숙하지 않았으며, 모든 사람이 하나 님 앞에서 평등하다는 사랑과 기쁨, 고통과 슬픔의 감정을 가지고 있다는 점에서 창조 된 사실을 깨달았다. 그러나 니자미는 여전히 그의 나라를 사랑했고, 그들을 존경했으며, 그의 작품과 각 행적을 통해 그의 민족이 문화, 지식, 정신 등 어떤 분야에서든 성취할 수 있다는 것 을 설득력 있게 보여주었다. 그가 그의 백성을 존경했고 사랑했던 것은 인간의 충성심에서가 아니라 주로 문명 전체에 대한 정신적, 문화적 공헌 덕분이었다. 그의 작품에서 시인은 “튀르크”라는 단어를 매우 다르게 여러 번 사용하지만 항상 긍정적인 어조와 의미를 지니고 있다. (아저바이자니즈( 그저 다른 터키어를 사용하는 나라로)는 현재 튀르크라고 불리고 있다.) 튀르크(아저바이자니)라는 단어는 니자미의 시 어휘에서 다음과 같은 의미를 가지고 있다: 고귀함, 정의로움, 친절함, 인간적임; 튀 르크계 여성: 피부가 희고, 아름답고, 거장하고, 우아하고, 날씬하고, 자유를 사랑하는 등 상황에 의해 강요되고 사랑하는 아들에게 설득된 니자미의 사건담화에서 유래할 수 있 듯이, 그는 원한을 품고 4개월 동안 높은 사랑의 아름다운 찬송가 레이리와 마즈눈을 쓰며 불멸의 퀴너리 최고의 진주로 평가받는 시를 썼다. 하지만 날씨가 변한다면 무엇을 할 수 있을까? 마음은 넓지만 가슴은 좁다. 전설의 통로가 빡빡할 경우 말의 흐름은 반드시 비틀거릴 것이다. 단어를 위한 공간은 넓어야 한다. 시인이 자신의 말을 자유롭게 달리게 하기 위해 (이 동화는 내 꿈의 세계와 일치하지 않는다) 시의 도입부에서 언급했듯이, 니자미는 처음에 주제의 요청에 대해 다소 회의적이었다. 그는 레이리와 마즈눈의 전설은 완전한 예술적 개념 이며, 따라서 “작품에 더하는 것은 말이 안 된다”고 믿었다.

84

Issue 7

Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

레이리와 마즈눈의 사랑은 다차원적인 시, 소설인 호스로와 쉬린을 만들어낸 시인에게 너무 제한적이고 저급해 보였다. 게다가, 그 에게 줄거리는 너무 우울하고 비극적으로 보였다. 그러나, 쓰여진 자료와 구전 전설을 읽은 후, 시인은 그 설화에 진정한 관심을 갖게 되었다. 나머지는 전설의 민속 버전이 아니라 12세기까지 아랍어로만 존재했던 문헌 자료에서 주요 자료를 끌어낸 것으로 보인다. 레이라와 마즈눈의 전설은 7세기 말이나 8세기 초에 북아랍 부족들(베두인)사이에서 나타났다. 그러나 이 전설의 서술은 10세기 초로 거 슬러 올라간다. 니자미가 사용할 수 있는 주요 문헌은 이븐 쿠타이바의 시와 시집(카타브 알 쉬르와 알 슈아라)(889), 아부 알파라즈 알이스파니 의 노래집(키타브 아가니)(967), 라일라와 마즈눈의 연대기(11세기)이었다; 후자는 동양에서 아직까지도 유명하다. 레이리와 마즈눈에 대 한 초기 줄거리는 위의 모든 문헌에서 거의 동일하다; 니자미 역시 시를 쓸 때 이 줄거리를 유지했다. 호스로와 쉬린과는 달리, 니자미의 신작 시의 등장인물들은 동등한 헌신으로 서로를 사랑하고, 꽤 가치 있는 인물이다. 그러나, 레 이리와 마즈눈 둘 다 부모의 보호 아래 있다; 레이리는 그녀의 행동에 가장 제한당하는 사람이다. 마즈눈의 아버지는 귀족이자 부족의 우 두머리인 셰이크이고, 레이리의 아버지는 다른 부족을 이끌고 있다; 둘의 아버지는 전통, 종교적인 도덕성, 피상적인 규범의 노예이다. 그들의 차이와 상관없이, 그들의 핵심은 같다: 두 사람 모두 일단 자리를 잡으면 맹목적으로 독단적인 태도를 고수한다. 레이리와 마즈눈의 아버 지는 친절하고 공정하다. 그들은 그들의 자녀들이 행복하기를 바라지만, 여전히 그들의 방식으로 행복을 이해한다. 마즈눈이 레이리에게 “ 비범하고” 숭고하고 열정적인 사랑에 빠졌다는 것이 밝혀졌을 때, 그들은 마즈눈이 자신을”망신”하고 미쳤다고 믿는다; 그래서 그들은 그들 의 사랑하는 아이들을 그러한 “수치심”과 불행으로부터 구하기 위해 무슨 수를 써서라도 노력한다. 니자미는 인간의 영혼의 경쾌하고 자연스러운 움직임과 암울한 중세 현실의 폐쇄적인 전통과 무자비한 법 사이의 갈등을 놀라운 기술로 보여주었다. 언제나 그렇듯, 니자미는 높은 도덕적 기준을 전파하기 위해 그의 시를 사용했다. 그는 이 시의 첫머리에 “왕을 섬기는 것을 거부 한다”, “사람이 백성들로부터 매일의 빵을 빼앗아서는 안 된다는 사실에 대하여”, “압박을 참지 말아야 한다는 사실에 대하여”, “작은 것 으로도 만족하는 기쁨에 대하여”, “백성을 섬기는 기쁨에 대하여”, “허영심 소멸” 등이라는 특징적인 제목의 작은 교훈적인 장을 넣었다. 니자미는 레이리와 마즈눈 이후 2편의 시를 더 썼는데, 그 중 첫 번째 시인 7명의 미녀는 1197년에 완성되었다. 이 시의 역사에 관 해서는, 그 시의 작문, 제목, 헌사와 관련된 많은 문제들이 여전히 불분명하다는 것을 주목해야 한다. 아마도 이 시는 셀주크 술탄이자 니 자미의 절친한 친구이자 니자미의 첫 번째 시 인 신비의 금고의 바흐람 샤의 처남인 술래이만 샤에게 헌정되었을 것이다. 술래이만 샤는 시 를 좋아했고 페르시아어로 시를 썼으며 (그들 중 일부는 우리에게 왔다) 시인, 작가, 학자들을 후원했다. 그가 시인에게 그를 기리기 위해 새로운 시를 써 달라고 요청하게 된 이유들 중에는 그의 처남이 The Treasury of Mysteries 덕분에 얻은 명성, 니자미의 다른 시들인 호 스로와 쉬린, 레이리와 마즈눈의 높은 인기, 시에 대한 그의 깊은 관심 등이 있었을 것이다. 니자미의 첫 번째 헌정받는 사람인 바흐람 샤와 다른 지방의 통치자들은 모두 술래이만 샤의 신하였다. 이 글은 술래이만 샤의 요청으로 1196년에 시작되었는데, 술래이만 샤가 소아시아 의 최고 통치자가 되어 콘야에서 왕위에 올랐다. 술래이만 샤에게 헌정된 시의 원본은 1197년 7월 31일 니자미에 의해 완성되었다. 책의 시작과 끝에 헌신이 담긴 장들은 이후 수 정되었고, 술래이만 샤 이븐 칼리지 아르슬란의 이름이 마라가 통치자 알라 알딘 코르프 아르슬란의 이름으로 대체되었고 (1174-1208), 코 르프 아르슬란의 아들과 가족을 찬양하는 시들이 몇 개 더해졌으며, 그 시는 그에게 발표됐다. 1202년 니자미가 죽은 후, 아들 무함마드가 술래이만 샤에게 보낸 시는 아무런 반향을 불러일으키지도 않았고, 그의 수도인 콘야에서 멀리 떨어진 곳에서 끊임없이 전쟁을 벌이고 있던 고객으로부터 보상을 받지도 않았기 때문에 이 시집은 아마도 그의 아들 무함마드가 한 것일 것이다. 예이 이 버털즈는 다음과 같이 썼다: “이 헌신은 유럽의 오리엔탈리스트들을 정말로 어리둥절하게 했다”. 빌헬름 바허는 코르프 아 르슬란의 장남의 이름을 분석했으며, 이 시가 누스라트 알딘 비슈킨에게 바쳐졌다고 믿는다. 7명의 미녀들을 영어로 번역한 윌슨은 이 시가 코어레즘 샤 알라 에드 딘 테키쉬에게 바쳐졌다는 것을 증명하기 위해 많은 노력을 기울였다.

7명의 미녀들이라는 책을 영어로 번역한 찰스 어윈 윌슨은 그 시가 호레즘 하 알라 앗딘 테키시 (1172-1200)을 위해 쓰였다는 것을 증명하기 위해 큰 노력을 했다. 이 모든 것들은 당연하게도 필경사들에게 잘 알려지지 않은 크롭 아르슬란이라는 사람의 좋지 않은 원고에서 시작된다. 그 원고는 부분적으로 또는 완전히 왜곡되어 심지어는 그의 이름을 퀴질 아르슬란으로 바꾸기도 했다. (Yе.E.Bertels.

Nizami and Fuzuli. p.148). 이것은 명시되어야 하지만 많은 원고와 석판 출판물들은 그의 이름을 “크롬 아르슬란" 과 “퀴질 아르슬란"으로 표기하지 않고 “킬 리지 아르슬란" (술레이만 샤의 아빠의 이름)으로 표시하고 있다. 이것은 그 시가 술레이만 샤의 제안으로 쓰인 시이자 술레이만 샤를 위해 쓰인 시였다는 추정을 다시 한번 증명한다.

Issue 7

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Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors for Foreign Embassies in the Republic of Korea

구성과 예술적인 부분에서 7명의 미녀들은 니자미가 써왔던 다른 시들과는 두드러지게 다르다. 시의 이야기는 이슬람 이전의 이란의 통치자였던 샤 바흐람 구르의 인생과 행위에 기반하고 있다. 전설에 의하면 바하람은 지구의 일곱 개의 기후의 경의 딸인 일곱명의 미인들과 결혼했다. (중세 과학에서의 세계 전체의 분할) 각각의 일곱 명의 미인들은 자기 전의 멋진 전설인 샤에 연관되어 있다. 이 “삽입된 소설들"은 이 작품에서 독립된 층을 형성한다. 각 층의 색은 그 시대에 알려져 있던 일곱 개의 기후를 다스리는 일곱 개의 행성의 색에 각각 일치했다. 니자미는 바하람이 통치할 당시의 이야기를 써서 다시 한번 자신의 권력을 잘 사용하는 이상적인 통치자에 대한 시각을 밝혔다. 그러나 그가 그린 이미지는 그러한 이상적인 왕의 요구 사항을 항상 만족시키는 것은 아니다. 바하람은 많은 긍정적인 특징들을 가지고 있 다; 그는 현명하고, 용기 있고, 단호하며 정의롭다. 그의 권력이 상승할수록 그는 국가를 현명한 자세로 다스리기 시작했고, 그 국가는 금방 사람들이 행복 속에서 사는 약속의 땅으로 변한다. 가뭄이 닥쳐오면, 바하람은 국가 창고의 문을 열고 국민들에게 필요한 모든 수단을 제 공하라고 명령한다. 오직 한 사람만 4년 동안의 가뭄 동안 굶었다. 하지만 그 행복과 지속하는 성공은 바하람을 망쳤고 그의 주의 깊음을 손상했다. 그가 부주의한 샤와 소극적인 지휘자들에게서 이득을 얻던 도중 중국의 황제가 엄청난 규모의 군대를 가지고 이란을 공격한다. 바하람은 이 어려운 상황 속에서 대담하고 단호히 행동 한다. 그는 자신의 작은 군대로 중국에 갑작스러운 공격을 가해 승리한다.

7명의 미녀들 시는 삽입된 소설들(짧은 이야기들)에서 신화적인 요소가 두드러지는 시들 중 하나다. 그들이 온갖 종류의 영혼과 괴 물들 (구울, 이프리트, 디브, 로리페이드, 등)뿐만 아니라 신화적이고 동화적인 생명체들의 풍부함을 즐기는 것은 놀랄 일이 아니다. 하지만, 이 동화적인 부분과는 상관없이, 여전히 니자미는 놀라운 진실성과 모방할 수 없는 시적 기술로 그의 자기계발의 길을 따르고, 선을 보호하 고, 거짓과 불의로부터 싸우는 그의 생각을 독자들에게 전달하고자 하는 목표를 달성한다. 여기에서 니자미의 작품들이 매우 풍부하고 깊은 생각과 예언적 추측을 가지고 있다는 점도 찾을 수 있다. 당시의 공식적인 이슬 람 신학과 과학적 견해와는 달리, 니자미는 세계와 우주 전체는 가장 대담한 사람이 받는 것보다 훨씬 넓고, 크고, 다양하다고 유추했다. 몇 개의 암시들로부터 우리는 니자미가 이 시를 작성하고 있을 당시 그가 가정 문제들을 겪고 있었다는 것을 알 수 있다. 그 가정 문제들의 요인은 그의 27살 아들 무함마드 인 것으로 보인다. 무함마드가 이미 결혼을 해 가정을 차렸기에 니자미는 집에서 나가야 했다. 그는 고독한 삶을 살았으며 그의 아들을 향한 원한을 품고 살았다. 그가 거대한 네 개의 시를 작성하고 인생의 의미와 한 남자의 운명에 대한 자신의 생각을 웅장한 서사시로 요약하기로 결정한 것은 그가 죽기까지 얼마 시간이 남지 않았을 때였다. 1197년도에는 그가 이스칸다르의 이름(이스칸다르 책을 쓰기 시작했다. 이 책은 그 의 작품활동에서 정점에 도달했으며 서사 규모 면에서 그의 이전 작품들을 능가했다. 그의 나이, 피로와 매일의 역경에도 불구하고 이 시인은 그의 인생의 작품을 완성하고 두 권의 책으로 거대한 이야기를 만들 힘을 찾아냈다. 첫 번째, 더 큰 책의 제목은 샤라프-이름 (영광의 책)이고, 두 번째 책의 제목은 이크발-이름 (행복의 책)이다. 이 제목들은 시 적인 줄거리와 인생의 의미와 연관된 주요 개념을 정확하게 반영하며 서사시의 기반을 마련한다. 그는 이스칸다르의 놀랍도록 인상적이고 역동적인 이미지를 만들었다. 역사적인 마케도니아의 알렉산더가 아닌 여태까지 존재하지 않았던 이상적인 통치자라는 이미지로 말이다. 시의 앞부분에서 니자미는 젊고 활발하지만, 왕들과 지도자들 사이에서 앞서기 위해 노력하 는, 전쟁, 캠페인과 정복을 함으로써 유명세를 얻고자하는 왕을 그린다. 하지만 이것은 무궁무진한 에너지의 원천에 하나에 불과할 수 없 다. 이스칸다르는 세계를 떠돌아다니며 인생과 우주의 수수께끼에 대한 열쇠를 찾는 군사이자 철학자이다. 그는 인간의 행복과 진실한 이 상적인 인생의 의미를 파악하기 위해 세계를 아주 열정적이고 목적적인 태도로 발견하고 경험한다. 궁극적으로 그는 지구에서의 낙원과 같 은 약속된 땅에서 자신을 찾게 된다. 세계적인 행복의 나라에는 주인, 하인, 귀족, 노예, 압박을 받거나 압박을 주는 사람이 없다. 그곳에 는 적대적인 계급과 증오가 존재하지 않으며 사람들은 질병이나 역경으로 사망하지 않고 오직 노화로 인해 사망한다. 이스칸다르는 사회적 인 정의와 별개로 이 행복한 땅의 거주민들은 자연과의 조화를 이루며 살아나간다는 것을 알게 된다. “해의 도시", 이스칸다르는 조화롭게 구조화된 사회의 이상을 깨닫게 된다. 이러한 진실에 비추어 볼 때, 그의 모든 군사적인 성공과 “영광스러운 행위"는 그저 무의미하고 불필 요한 잔인함일 뿐이다. 그는 그의 국가에 비슷한 방법을 적용하는 것에 대해 생각해본다. 자신의 가르침의 궁극적인 목표를 구체화하고, ‘풍요와 진리, 선과 아름다움, 평화와 사랑의 계곡'으로 묘사되는 조화로운 사회상 을 만들면서, 이 시인은 후손들에게 이 밝은 이상을 삶으로 이끌어내라고 지시했다. 이스칸다르-이름은 니자미의 정상급의 작품이다. 자료의 면에서나 그 안의 풍부하고 간결한 사상을 담고 있는 측면에서 진정한 백과사전 이나 다름없다. 여기서 우리는 그의 다른 작품들에 스며들어 있는 영혼이 가득한 연민을 자아내는 힘과 인본주의적인 개념들을 찾을 수 있 다. 니자미는 그들을 재탐색하는 것을 멈추지 않을 것이다. 반대로, 그들을 모든 가능한 방법으로 전파하는 것과 그들을 동시대인과 후손들 에게 단단한 기억으로 남게 하는 것은 그의 선서된 의무였다.

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이스칸다르-이름은 그의 생의 마지막 해에 쓰였다. 그는 첫 번째 부분, 샤라프-이름을 1199년도에 완성했고, 두 번째 부분 이 크발-이름을 1201년에 완성했다. 편집자의 메모: 이스칸다르-이름은 사실 3부분으로 이루어진 다스탄 (중앙아시아의 구전동화)이다. 첫 번째 부분에서는 알렉산 드라가 왕이자 군사 지휘자로서 국가를 진압한다. 두 번째 부분에서는 아무도 지혜가 없이는 가장 높은 수준에 도달할 수 없기에 그는 페 르시아인, 인도인과 중국인들이 창조한 과학, 보물과 지혜를 배운다. 마지막 부분에서는 두엘카르네처럼 그는 선지자 수준으로 올라서 다시 세상을 떠돌며 사회의 도덕적인 표본을 만든다. 내가 뿌린 세 개의 씨앗들에서 나는 커다란 과일나무를 키울 것이다 나는 첫 번째로 지도자의 문을 두드릴 것이다 다른 나라들을 정복하는 것에 대해 말하기 시작할 것이다 그런 다음 나는 그 단어를 지혜로 장식할 것이다 낡은 노동력으로 그것을 강조할 것이다 그런 다음 나는 선지자의 문을 두드릴 것이다 그리고 알라는 그를 선지자로 낙인찍을 것이다 나는 세 개의 문을 만들었다, 각각 보석들의 보물로 그리고 각 문에 개별적으로 공을 들였다 (Nizami Ganjavi. Sharafnama. Tashih va sharh: Behruz Sarvatiyan. Tehran: Moesseseye-entesharate-Amir Kabir. 1393. p.96) 니자미의 사망 일자는 논란의 여지가 있지만, 이 논란을 해결하는 데 도움을 줄 수 있는 몇 가지 자료들이 있다. 니자미의 가족 중 누군가, 아마도 그의 아들은 시인의 죽음을 묘사했고, 이것을 이크발-이름의 마지막 장에 넣었다. 그것은 아래의 문장들을 포함한다: 그는 63세였으며, 여섯 달 뒤에 그는 사망했다.

(Nizami Ganjavi. Iskandar-name. Translated by К. Lipskerov. p.43) 음력으로 63.5년은 일반적인 방법으로 바꾸면 (음력이 양력보다 10일 정도 짧다), 우리는 그 시인이 1202년 6월에 사망했다고 정확하게 계산할 수 있다. 시간이 지나며 니자미의 시들이 무언가 완전한 것으로 알려지게 된 것은 우연이 아 니다. 왜냐하면, 그들은 뚜렷한 사상적이자 예술적인 응집력을 지닌 독특한 주기를 자연스 럽게 형성했기 때문이다. 이 시인의 사망 이전부터 이 주기의 이름은 함사(오진법) 또는 판 즈간지(다섯 보물)이었다. 니자미의 함사는 앞으로 여러 해 동안 중동의 많은 나라에 걸쳐 문학 발전의 방향을 선결했다. 니자미의 인본주의적인 가르침과 동등함, 형제애, 자유, 착함, 사랑 그리고 사회의 공평한 재건의 꿈은 높은 이상을 위해 노력하는 진보적인 사람들에게 오랫동안 영감이 되 어 왔다. 니자미가 태어난 지 8세기 이상이 지났지만, 그의 빛나는 재주는 우리의 감탄을 멈 추지 않을 것이다. 니자미, 그의 작품들과 그의 특징들은 계속될 것이고 인간 문명의 최고의 성취들에 기여할 것이다.

Page from an Illustrated Manuscript of the "Khamsa" by Nizami. Brooklyn Museum.

출처 : “A Poem About Immortal Love” by Prof. Rustam Aliyev., Russian edition., Baku., Yazichi., pp. 21-94. (Алиев Р. “Поэма о бессмертной любви”. Бакы. Язычы.1991. стр.21–94.)

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The Life and Works of Nizami Ganjavi Nizami was born in Ganja. It is generally assumed that the year of his birth was 1141. The analysis of an autobiographical fact contained in the poem Khosrow and Shirin enables us to ascertain the month and year when the poet was born. In the chapter titled “In justification of the writing of this book”, Nizami writes: Do you know my horoscope?

In it I am a lion, but a creature of dust, And if I am a lion, I am one made of wool…

(Nizami Ganjavi. Khosrow and Shirin. Translated by K.Lipskerov. Foreword and comments by Rustam Aliyev. Baku. Yazichi. 1983. p. 71.)

Editor’s note: Russian and Azerbaijani translations of verses have deficiencies and do not fully reflect the poet’s ideas.

‫ﻓ ﻠﮏ د ر ط ﺎ ﻟ ﻌ ﻢ ﺷ ﯿ ﺮ ی ﻧ ﻤ ﻮ د ﺳ ﺖ‬ ‫و ﻟﯽ ﭼ ﻮ ن ﺷ ﯿﺮ ﭘﺸ ﻤ ﯿﻨﻢ ﭼ ﮫ ﺳ ﻮ د ﺳ ﺖ‬ ‫ﻧ ﮫ آن ﺷ ﯿﺮ م ﮐ ﮫ ﺑ ﺎ د ﺷ ﻤ ﻦ ﺑﺮ آ ﯾ ﻢ‬ ‫ﻣ ﺮ ا آن ﺑ ﺲ ﮐ ﮫ ﻣ ﻦ ﺑ ﺎ ﻣ ﻦ ﺑﺮ آﯾﻢ‬ The stars have foretold my fate of lion, But what’s the use of it, if I’m a woolen one?

I’m not the lion that stands up to the foes, I’m standing up to myself and that is fine with me.

In these two verses, Nizami complains about vicissitudes of life; in the next verse he summons up his will, the tone of his writing becomes optimistic and hopeful about future. The poet thanks his fate for being born under a lucky star. He came to this life by his fate as a man with a lion’s courage; then, he writes with irony and inspiration that he is like a woolen lion that only just looks like a real lion. What does it mean?

This expression is common for Jalal ad-Din Rumi. In the past, people used to make 88

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woolen lions to perform during public events. The poet implies that, although he was born under the sign of Leo, he is rather a plush toy, which renders meaningless the very being a “lion”. He then goes on writing that the real lion can fight his enemies but all he (i.e., the poet) can do is to fight with himself at best (inner struggle).

It clearly follows from these lines that the poet was born under the sign of Leo. In the same chapter, he states that he was forty when he started the poem: You are forty years old; half of the fragile life is over, Do not wrinkle your pleasing face when reading this story. (p. 69) Editor’s note: forty years is the age of maturity. Poet implies that reaching age of maturity is about expressing new ideas and thoughts.

Nizami began his poem in 575 AH and, as he indicated at the end of the book, finished it in 576 AH: Five hundred and seventy-six years flew by. And it is amazing that A beautiful face appeared in the happy glow. (p. 359) Editor’s note: It is a figure of speech; the poet means that nobody has ever written such a poem before.

Hence it can be derived that the poet was born in 535 AH under the sign of Leo. In 535 AH, sun was in Leo on 1 through 6 Muharram, which corresponds to 1722 August 1140 AD. Thus, it can be stated with certainty that Nizami was born between 17 and 22 August 1140.

As mentioned above, Nizami was born in the ancient capital of Arran, Ganja city. He grew up and lived there almost permanently, and died and was buried there.

Afterwards, however, when the poet’s works gained wide popularity, many a town claimed him their own, just like seven Greek cities had claimed the great Homer.

The poet’s own name was Ilyas, his father’s name was Yusuf, his grandfather and great-grandfather’s were Zaki ad-Din and Muayyad fid-Din, respectively. Zaki ad-Din means “purity of faith”, and Muayyad Fid-Din “Supported (by Allah) in the faith”. Such titles in the medieval Orient were conferred, as a rule, to scholars and clergymen. Apparently, the poet was born to a noble family. This is also confirmed by the fact that Nizami’s mother, the “Kurdish lady” (“Raisa-i kord”), also descended Issue 7

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from a noble family. His maternal uncle, Omar, bore the title “Khwaja”, usually given to court dignitaries in the poet’s time. Most probably, he served at the Atabey court in Ganja. The poet assumed the alias “Nizami” which literally means “the one who puts, strings the words in order”.

Editor’s note: This alias is linked, inter alia, with 1001 names of Allah; therefore, according to numerological science, the sum of Arabic letters that constitute the word “Nizami” (‫“()ﻧﻈﺎﻣﯽ‬nun”+50+“za”=900+“alef”=1+“mim”=40+“yeh”=10) equals 1001, while the sum of letters that consist his given name “Ilyas” (‫)اﻟﯿﺎس‬ equals 102 (“alef”=1+“lam”=30+“yeh”=10+“alef”=1+“sin”=60), and if one subtracts “alef”=1 and “beh”=2, i.e. 3, the result is 99 beautiful names of Allah.

The poet himself indicates that in a couplet from Layla and Majnun:

‫د ر ﺧ ﻂ ﻧﻈ ﺎ ﻣ ﯽ ار ﻧ ﮭ ﯽ ﮔ ﺎم‬ ‫ﺑﯿﻨﯽ ﻋ ﺪ د ھ ﺰ ار و ﯾﮏ ﻧﺎم‬ ‫و ا ﻟ ﯿ ﺎ س ﮐ ﺎ ﻟﻒ ﺑ ﺮ ی ز ﻻ ﻣ ﺶ‬ ‫ ﻧﻮ د و ﻧﮫ اﺳ ﺖ ﻧﺎﻣ ﺶ‬،‫ھ ﻢ ﺑﺎ‬ The sobriquet “Nizami” that I’ve got, Contains a thousand and one names.

And if we cut Alef and Lam from Ilyas, We come back to 99 names again .‫ﻣﺆﺳﺴﮫ اﻧﺘﺸﺎرات اﻣﯿـﺮ ﮐﺒﯿـﺮ‬:‫ ﺗﮭﺮان‬.‫ ﺑﮭﺮوز ﺛﺮوﺗﯿﺎن‬:‫ ﺗﺼﺤﯿﺢ و ﺷﺮح‬.‫ ﻟﯿﻠﯽ و ﻣﺠﻨﻮن‬،‫ﻧﻈﺎﻣﯽ ﮔﻨﺠﮫ ای‬ 1394 (Nizami Ganjavi. Leyli va Majnun. Tashih va sharh: Behruz Sarvatiyan. Tehran: Moesseseye-entesharateAmir Kabir. 1394. p.63, 355)

The education Nizami received was great for those times. According to the rules of the time, Ilyas was first educated within the family. As a kid (at the age of five) he learned the Holy Quran, which later repeatedly cited in his works. He also studied Quranic literature, Islamic law, the stories of Prophet Muhammad, and the whole range of disciplines that constituted the concept of “adaba” (education). As a 90

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rule, descendants of wealthy families were dispatched to the famous theological school The Nizamiyyah in Baghdad or to Damascus, Mecca, and Cairo to continue their education. Nizami, however, would not go; he chose to study in his hometown, since in 1150s Ganja became the town of choice for many great scientists, poets, writers, architects from all countries. Judging by the books Nizami mentions, he had an access to manuscript lists of works in various fields of science, translations, interpretations of ancient writers, poetic collections of Arabic, Persian and Persianwriting authors that were kept in libraries of Ganja. Nizami thoroughly studied arithmetic, algebra, geometry, astronomy, chemistry, mineralogy, medicine, logic, metaphysics, geography, history, poetics, and versification. The greatest success he achieved in the field of science, as can be seen from his works, was in medicine and astronomy.

Specialists are still amazed by Nizami’s versatile knowledge of astronomy. In his poems Layla and Majnun, The Seven Beauties etc., the poet lists and professionally characterizes celestial bodies, many of which became known to the European science only after the invention of telescope. The spherical nature of Earth, its movement around Sun and rotation about its axis, the autonomy of each planet (“each star is a separate world, that has its own earth and sky”), the structure of the “eternally turning firmament”, the law of conservation of matter, the eternity of the universe, the essence of “the four elements” … all these matters would occupy Nizami’s inquisitive mind. He even was aware of Saturn having its own ring, which was later discovered by Galilei

(G.D. Mammadbeyli. Nizami as an advanced scientist of his time.

Nizami, Collection of Articles. Baku. 1940. p. 103 etc.).

Such scientific facts, of course, were not

uncovered by Nizami himself, but the very fact of knowing them is a sure sign of the poet was aware of all scientific achievements of his time. According to his own confession, “during his short life he read all the books” covering the topics from the ring of Saturn through to the center of Earth and became “a sea of knowledge of all subjects”.

Unlike the most of his contemporaries, Nizami would not study astronomy to perform astrological calculations or predict fate, but for the sake of apprehending the Issue 7

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secrets of nature. He did not believe in astrology or astrologers who were at that time inseparable from kings and rulers, openly denied the universal belief in that stars influence the destiny of a man.

Neither did he care about alchemists. In his times, the notion of “alchemy” effectively meant a mystical faith in chemical compounds that were transcendently identified with the stages of a human’s spiritual development. Alchemists tried to achieve the transformation of one element into another, for example, copper into gold, in order to find the magical “Philosopher’s Stone”, etc. On the other hand, alchemy also dealt with questions of the structure of substances, their properties, and chemical reactions. Rejecting the first, mystical aspect of alchemy, Nizami still recognized the second one. Specialized chemical terminology and descriptions are often encountered in his works. The poet said about phony-alchemists: “Who has power over chemistry, would not fall to the tricks of alchemists”.

Nizami also possessed a deep and broad knowledge in the field of medicine.

He was well acquainted with the works of such ancient physicians as Galen (Galenus), Hippocrates (Buqrat), as well as achievements of Islamic medicine and pharmacology (Zakariyya al-Razi, Hunayn ibn Ishaq, Avicenna) and others. Recipes and advice given by Nizami to maintain health and treat illnesses are so shrewd and sensible that they amaze even today’s physicians.

The poet specifically studied history, including that of the ancient world and the Arab caliphate, pre-Islamic history of Iranian nations, history and ethnography of many Turkic tribes scattered over a vast area from China through to the Mediterranean Sea. He thoroughly read Plato’s The Republic, The Laws, and Timaeus; philosophical and logical works of Aristotle; treatises of Archimedes, Euclid, Hermes Trismegistus, Thales of Miletus, Apollonius of Tyana, Porphyry of Tyre and others. According to the poet himself, he studied the works of al-Ṭabari, alBaladhuri, Ya'qubi, Ibn Qutaybah, Bal’ami, Ibn Fadlan, al-Mas’udi, and other Arabic, Persian and Persian-writing historians; from these sources she derived knowledge about different nations.

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It can also be assumed that, apart from books, Nizami acquired information by communicating with people of various nations: Georgians, Jews, and Rus' people.

Indubitably, he drew the deep knowledge of Rus' and customs and traditions of its people not only from books but also from conversations with Rus' merchants who were the main suppliers of furs to the Ganja market. The Slavic proper names “Chudra”, “Yerema”, “Kupal”, and the title “Knyaz” mentioned in Iskandar-name were, of course, acquired by the poet thanks to his close familiarity with Rus' customs and everyday life.

In his works the poet also displays a wonderful knowledge of the Holy Bible and Christian literature alike. He could be assisted by numerous Christian scholars of Greek, and Georgian origin who lived in Ganja, famous from the days of yore as a major international center. It is also likely that the poet would know some “Christian” languages.

As we find out from Nizami’s works, he would always make a thorough preparation before starting a poem: he scrupulously studied the sources on the selected topic, ordered manuscripts from remote parts of the Muslim world, and compared them; not before he has completed such an all-round acquaintance with the topic would he proceed to its poetic verbalization.

It was only his death that prevented the poet from expanding his knowledge; he looked into many an issue that worried the minds of progressive thinkers of that time.

It is quite difficult to outline Nizami’s scientific interests. He was concerned with global matters of the universe, structure of the matter, causes of formation of mountains and oceans, and the innermost sources of human actions and feelings.

Nizami usually put results of his observations into mouths of his characters, great philosophers and thinkers of the past, whose images he created in his works. But Nizami would remain critically reasoning only until his inquisitive mind reached a definite limit; and beyond, he had a religion, mystery of creation, something inconceivable. Unable to solve the eternal mystery of existence, he turned his eyes to the throne of the Creator.

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Even more than science, it was poetry that Ilyas was fond of yet in his teen age.

Apart from his native Azerbaijani language, which was then called “Turki” (Turkic), Nizami had a great command of both Arabic and Persian languages. While the former served as an everyday language of communication, since the bulk of Ganja’s and the entire Arran’s populace was Turkic-speaking, Arabic language was the language of science and religion, whereas Persian was the language of poetry.

Nizami studied and memorized verses written by both classical and contemporary Arab and Persian poets.

For there was an absolute rule in those days; everyone who wanted to try his hand in the poetic pursuits had to thoroughly review all existing literature in both languages. Nizami Aruzi (Samarqandi) one of the first literature theorists and Nizami’s senior contemporary, wrote: “In order to achieve a high technical skill, a novice poet had to fulfill one more condition: “The one who has a talent in versification, with their verses becoming smooth, should turn to science and study prosody. And all these sciences of different kind they should apprehend with the assistance of some competent teacher until they deserve the title of teacher and their name is noted on the pages of time. Since for all awards they receive from the exalted ruler, they could repay with perpetuating this ruler’s name. And as befits the Padishah, he should take care of such poet and look after them until the latter rise to prominence in his service and make their name famous by praising”.

These conditions, so clearly stated by the main literature theoretician of the 12th century, were strictly observed by all poets, including Nizami, although no Padishah or Sultan could care less about the poet. It has not been accurately established to date who was the well-known belles-lettres teacher who taught Nizami the subtleties of poetic art. There is a sole indication in the poet’s works, namely in the poem Iskandar-name (Iqbal-name), where Nizami mentions with gratitude one “Imad from Khoy” as a wise man and a teacher who once helped him in the poetic field.

Alongside the style, language and mastery of ancient and modern authors, various guides on poetics and versification, the young Ilyas, as it appears from his own accounts, would review explanatory dictionaries as well in order to comprehend 94

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all connotations of a word. He often explains the etymological meaning of many rare words, terms, and proper names. It was yet in his young years that Nizami tried writing poetry. His exclusive poetic talent helped him quickly gain popularity with readers.

Delicate lyric ghazals of Nizami were popular not only in Azerbaijan, but also across Central Asia and Iran. Thereby the poet could have made a great career at the court. At some point of time, he almost fell for this prospect, but quickly discarded it and “left childish dreams and self-admiration, dreams, and exhilaration behind”.

There are several fairly clear hints in his works as to he once nearly yielded to the temptations of gewgaw and glossy court life.

The certain role in this stage of his life most certainly played the schemes plotted by court poets, who, envious of Nizami’s talent, would stop at nothing to poison young Ilyas with slanders and gossips. Nizami returns to this very topic in many of his poems; these motives of condemning haters can be distinctly traced in Nizami’s first poem The Treasury of Mysteries.

Probably, in the time when the poet was still hopeful about the court career, some old court poets were plotting against him out of envy and spite. It cannot be ruled out that such circumstances reinforced Nizami’s decision to keep clear of magnificent shah palaces and take his own independent road of creation.

Anyhow, having come to his senses in due time, Nizami realized that all mundane is momentary, the sky is “just an old widow”, the world “a yellowed fruit”, and everything in the world is not worth a barley grain as it is subject to decay; one therefore should not become attached to something that is perishable and transient.

As the poet admitted, he tried to suppress “worldly passions” when a youngster, so he devoted himself to asceticism, “purification of the soul” through fasting, seclusion and abstention, because, according to Nizami, one can “know their heart and achieve the greatness of their soul” only by subjecting corporal essence and basic instincts to the will of reason.

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Moreover, Nizami thoroughly realized how uncertain is the lot of a court poet, subject to the whims of his lords. He repeatedly returns to this issue in his later works, advising himself and his readers to keep away from shah’s favors.

Having realized his poetic mission, Nizami believed he first needed freedom of will and speech to achieve it. He perfectly understood that the word was created to serve a good cause. It can be used as simple means of communication among people, or turned into a source of evil and disaster, or it can be the reason for joy. Word should serve sublime arts, take shape in human memory, and serve a means of relationship with future generations, a subtle tool of establishing harmony among people. It is only words through which all the achievements of humanity, the fruits of their minds and talents, as well as their delusions and mistakes, are preserved and passed down from one generation to another.

First of all, the poet turned to the genre of qasida (ode). He decided to breathe a real life into this genre form, emasculated by that time. Putting standard glorification forms aside, he began to propagate in his qasidas the high ideals of benevolence, trying to give good advice and wise counsel to kings and rulers. The poet also describes his philosophical and social views and opinions on various issues of being.

The five qasidas of Nizami that came down to us “can indisputably establish his authorship”; they were written in different years of his life. Alongside qasidas, Nizami also wrote ghazals. Ghazals of Nizami differ significantly from those of his predecessors and contemporary poets alike. They are much more ingenuous, inspired and humane; reading them, we often see a concrete plot and real feelings such as love, anger, sadness, and delight of meeting with the beloved one; we can experience everything that a lover’s heart is full of.

Nizami’s lyric as a whole is of life-asserting nature; he uses it to urge people to value life, its beauty, and originality, as well as to cherish its wonderful gift, love, which sublimates a human soul.

Unfortunately, the Nizami’s Divan of lyric poems did not come down to us, although it in fact existed, as the poet himself says in the poem Layla and Majnun 96

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written in 1188. According to some medieval biographers, this Divan included about twenty thousand lines, but only a small part of this enormous lyrical heritage has survived.

It so happened that the poet dedicated one of his didactic qasidas to the ruler of Derbent, at that time a part of the Shirvanshah state. Nizami’s qasida dedicated to Dara Muzaffar ad-Din has not survived. But it is beyond doubt that, just like Nizami’s other qasidas, it contained a bitter pill of good advice in an appropriate poetic shape. It seems unlikely that a ruler would have liked such admonitions. It so happened that at the same time Muzaffar was presented another gift, a young beautiful lady from a Kipchaks tribe; her name was Appag, which means “white”, “whitey” (her name was spelled “Afak” in Arabic transliteration as there is no sound “p” in Arabic language)

(Ye.E.Bertels. On the name of Nizami’s first wife. In the book: Nizami and

Fuzuli. Moscow. 1962. pp. 484-486).

It is not known for sure who gave her to the Derbent ruler; she might be presented by his Georgian relatives, whose troops enjoyed many Kipchak soldiers, or she had been captured during one of the frequent military clashes with the Kipchaks who at that time inhabited a vast territory from the mouth of River Volga down to the Black Sea. Seduced by the beauty of the young captive, Muzaffar desired to make her the crown jewel of his harem, thus to take her as a concubine. But freedom-loving, proud and virtuous Afak, who, just like her fellow tribeswomen who had converted to Islam but probably would not yet lose the taste of former independence and freedom (the poet would write about this in detail later on), refused to submit to the will of the Derbent ruler. No persuasions, gifts, or threats could change her mind: she “disciplined” her new master heavily by “pulling his ears”. Unable to conquer the heart of this virtuous slave, Muzaffar decided to give her away to the poet as a kind of “fee” for the qasida the latter had written for him. Perhaps he pursued two goals: to punish the poet and mock him for his overly persistent admonitions and lessons by setting on him a combative slave (to have her scratch his face, too), and at the same time to humiliate Afak by handing her over to a poor poet and thus depriving her of “silk attires and delicious viands”. Even if so, Muzaffar played a wrong card, as he Issue 7

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inadvertently did a great favor to Nizami: the overjoyed poet really fell in love with Afak, and later on wrote in her memory one of his all-time poems that rightfully entered the gold annals of world literature.

It happened in 1170: Nizami was not married then and, apparently, didn’t even think of it, for he wanted to keep his freedom and work uninterrupted. Having met Afak, however, it was the first time in his life that the thirty-year-old poet experienced the genuine feeling of attachment and love. Nizami introduced the proud and beautiful Turkic girl to his home not as a slave or bondmaid, but as his lawful and respected wife.

Afak played a significant role in Nizami’s life and work. As it was mentioned above, she was from the Kipchaks, one of the biggest Turkic nations. It was yet in the 9th century AD that Kipchaks settled in the region Dashtikipchak (Kipchak field) that stretched between the mouth of the Volga and the Don, the Dnieper, and the Black Sea. The Kipchaks had long been called Polovtsians in land of Rus'. They led a nomadic way of life and adopted Islam later than other Turkic nations. The Polovtsian women enjoyed great freedom, and took an active part in public life together with men, even fighting side by side with them. Noting the beauty and grace of the Kipchak women, the Arab travelers Ibn Fadlan (921 AD) and Ibn Battuta (1330s), emphasized in particular their freedom-loving nature, self-esteem, and virtuousness. According to Ibn Battuta and other historians, even couple centuries after conversion to Islam, the Kipchak women, just like most of their Turkic counterparts, would go out unveiled, with open face, much to the embarrassment of faithful Muslim travelers.

Describing Afak, noting her beauty that “gave light to the eyes”, as well as her elegance, agility, helpfulness, and devotion, the poet repeatedly emphasized her virtuousness, purity, and independence. Afak was uneducated, she did not know Persian or Arabic, was not keen in literature, but, as the poet recalled, she possessed an extraordinary natural wisdom and the sense of internal culture; she knew by heart the legends and songs, customs and habits, and heroic legends of her own people.

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Afak’s stories about the traditions of her fellow tribesmen were later reflected in Nizami’s poems, in Iskandar-name in particular.

Afak played a great role in the fate of Nizami, helped him gain a foothold as a poet, and contributed to his concept of sublime love and teaching of harmonious relationship between a woman and a man.

The poet was the happiest man in 1174 when his son, Muhammad, was born.

Those years, full of love and family happiness, were the best time in Nizami’s life.

He found himself in his work, achieved perfection as an author; his social ideals and artistic principles, ethical and aesthetic views finally took shape. Nizami went on writing beautiful ghazals as well as didactic qasidas in which he preached noble humanistic ideas of serving people, but he also decided to develop in a large corporate body of work his teaching of the meaning of life and purpose of an individual.

So, around the first half of 1177, Nizami began writing his first poem Mahzan al-Asrar (The Treasury of Mysteries), where for the first time he presented in a didactic manner, adding also an extensive artistic and illustrative material, his teaching of humanism (“Mardomi adamiyya”). So far, there has been no shared opinion on the year of writing The Treasury of Mysteries. According to Ye.E.Bertels, the poem was written in several days and completed in either 1173 or 1179–1180 AD (Ye.E.Bertels. Nizami and Fuzuli. p. 126).

Vahid Dastgerdi maintained that The Treasury of

Mysteries was written between 1174–1175 and 1176–1177

(V.Dastgirdi. The Treasures of

Ganja. Tehran. 1939).

Addressing Prophet Muhammad, the couplet in the beginning of the book helps establish the exact date of writing: For five hundred and fifty-nine years you’ve slept, it’s been long enough.

The sun has risen, wake up and hurry to the general gathering!

As known, Prophet Muhammad died in 11 AH, which corresponds to the year 574–575 of the common era. As indicated in the end of The Treasury of Mysteries, it was completed in 1176–1177. At first glance, one can derive that it took the poet five

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years to complete it. In the end of the book, however, Nizami directly indicates that it took him “several mornings” to write the poem.

Editor’s note: This expression, however, attracts attention as a figure of speech (hyperbole). The poet wants to say he spent several mornings to mind-structure main storylines within this plot.

The poet’s above invocation to the prophet: “rise from the grave”, “you’ve slept for 559 years”, confirms the idea that an unusually small number of praises for the Prophet (there are six together with those in the chapter about Ascension!) is explained by the considerable part of these glorifications having been written earlier as independent works. The fourth glorification, whose couplet is examined here, differs with its youthful spirit and loudly criticizes the true essence of clergy in the poet’s times. Apparently, this glorification was written in 1174 and included in the book in 1177.

Notably, V.Dastgerdi’s publication and many manuscripts of The Treasury of Mysteries state “570” instead of “559”, whereas some lithographs provide “552”, “580”, etc., which does not represent the facts

(Nizami Ganjavi. The Treasury of Mysteries.

Philological translation. p. 283).

It can be gathered that the poet started writing the poem in 570 AH (1174–1175 AD), and completed it, as he precisely indicates in the end of the composition, in 572 AH (1376–1177 AD). As we shall see below, by 1178 the book had already reached its addressee, which confirms that it was completed earlier.

Working on his first opus, Nizami was apparently weighing up every word and carefully refining each line.

This unmatched masterpiece of Nizami’s poetic art is dedicated to Bahram Shah, the ruler (1166–1225) of Erzinjan, a small principality in Asia Minor (now Turkey), although it is still not clear why as Bahram Shah had never played any significant role in the political life of Azerbaijan or its neighboring countries. This dedication may appear even stranger if we recall the fact that at that time the star of Atabeys of Azerbaijan was shining brightly on the political sky, and Nizami had great respect of them. Therefore, two hypotheses can be put forward.

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Firstly, Nizami would never dedicate his works to any shahs or sultans unless requested specifically; even if requested, he would do that only in case the applicant deserved to some extent a positive judgment and matched the ideal of a fair ruler.

Secondly, judging by some hints in The Treasury of Mysteries, Nizami personally knew Bahram Shah. The poet says in this respect that it was himself who wanted to bring the poem to the dedicatee and resume old friendly relations with him. He cannot do this, however, for Ganja “is surrounded from all sides by a ring of swords and swordbearing lions”

(Nizami Ganjavi. The Treasury of Mysteries. Philological translation. pp.

42-43).

These lines were written in 1177, when the intestine war was raging between the Seljuq dynasty offspring and the Atabeys. Only in July 1177 the military actions ended and the seven-year-old Toghrul III was proclaimed Sultan of Iraq and Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan his Atabey. At the same time, it should be noted that Nizami overcolors the picture, justifying in poetic form his unwillingness to go to Bahram Shah and hand over the poem in person. Interestingly, Nizami sounds just the same motives when dispatching his poem, The Seven Beauties to the dedicatee.

The poet could meet Bahram Shah in 1163 in Ganja, when Shamsad-Din the Atabey gathered all the Seljuqs, including Bahram Shah and the Derbent ruler Dara Muzaffar ad-Din to jointly repel the raids of neighboring Christian feudals (Z.M. Buniatov. The State of Atabegs of Azerbaijan. pp. 63, 67 and onwards).

Due to his descent and sufficiently high rank of his uncle Omar, Nizami might have been well received at the court of Atabeys in Ganja. As noted above, at some time he even had a dream of becoming a court poet. In all probability, it was in Ganja where he met Bahram Shah and Dara the ruler of Derbent. Another reason for the poet’s choice is apparently that Bahram Shah was known as a great connoisseur of poetry and patron of poets, writers, and scholars. Many of the poet’s contemporaries presented their works and dedicated magnificent qasidas to him. Judging by the report of Ibn Bibi, the court historian of the Asia Minor Seljuqs of that time, Bahram Shah quite warmly received the poem from the young Nizami. Ibn Bibi wrote: “In this year (1174–1178 AD) Khwaja Nizami Ganjavi wrote, like (a necklace of large) Issue 7

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pearls, the book Mahzan al-Asrar, dedicated to the Most August, and sent it to His Majesty as a gift. The King sent him a reward with one of his naibs and hajibs worthy of talking with him, five thousand dinars in gold, five saddled horses with harnesses, five amblers, and expensive clothes embroidered with gems. He liked the book very much and said: “Were it possible, I would give the entire treasury and fortunes as a reward and a gift for this book, which is composed in verses like pearls, for it will keep my name in the world forever. To praise or reprimand writers and poets is the only way to preserve a good name or shame in this fragile world and in these treacherous times”

(M.Th.Houtsma. Histoire des Seldjoucides d'Asie mineure, d'après l'abrégé

du “Seldjouknameh” d'Ibn-Bibi. Edition: Leude. E. J. Brill. 1902. p.57).

The poet, however, would

not receive these gifts as it was not once that he later on complained about hardship and dire straits.

The poem consists of twenty conversations. Although without any clear logical sequence, they all are primarily devoted to the two issues: an individual and a society. In conversations and thoughts about an individual, the poet analyzes the essence of human nature, the psychology of an individual, expresses his thoughts about reshaping the existing order in conversations about the society.

The main goal of the poem is to show that real happiness and concord can come into the world only when absolute harmony is established between an individual and their society, and when the aspirations, desires, cravings of an individual and their society will coincide and strive toward one goal.

The poet’s teaching about human nature, soul and body, and biological instincts and passions they are driven by was the very basis on which he created an idealistic social and philosophical concept. This elegant, albeit naive from the standpoint of today, history about a harmonious society of the future anticipated by many centuries the ideas of outstanding Utopian socialists such as Thomas More, Tommaso Campanella and others.

Nizami came to the conclusion that the source of disorder, misfortunes, and disasters on the earth is social imperfection and the social order that suppresses

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natural needs, desires, emotions, and cravings of the vast majority of people, thereby endlessly satisfying insatiable instincts of the negligible minority.

Nizami was insistently convincing kings and rulers that worldly goods, power, wealth, golden palaces, or imaginary greatness are unable to make one realize the notion of eternity, that is, of the true happiness, for death makes all these attributes of power and wealth void. The only thing that can turn one into a little part of divine substance and thus make them imperishable is “mardomi”, “adamiyya”, that is, humaneness, humanism, and philanthropy.

With his didactic stories from the lives of unjust tyrants or, on the contrary, wise and just kings, Nizami teaches that, first of all, one shall provide shoes and clothing and feed people and create normal conditions for their labor instead of verbiage.

Throughout the book, the poet matches tyrannic rulers with ordinary people, farmers, urban artisans, architects, scholars, skilled craftsmen, all those who create material goods and earn their bread by the sweat of their brow, and take a pride in their labor.

The poet therefore believes constructive and creative work is the most effective means to tame bodily instincts and fulfill the high mission of serving the people.

It must be said that the relationship of people with the environment was of interest to Muslim philosophers as far back as the 8th–9th centuries AD. However, for the first time this problem was formulated and received its artistic solution in the works of Nizami. In his The Treasury of Mysteries, he allocated a whole chapter for it. According to the poet’s teaching, the nature is a single and indivisible organism.

Each member of this organism fulfills its own function assigned to it by the creator.

The disruption of any link in this chain harms the entire body of nature and will have a pernicious effect on the fate of humanity.

The conceptual wealth of The Treasury of Mysteries is inexhaustible; Nizami’s mastery and enormous talent manifested in his poem to the fullest. The Treasury of Mysteries immediately brought Nizami fame and glory; his star rose high, making the works of other poets pale in comparison.

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As a matter of fact, that was the happiest time in the poet’s life; the time when he was on the rise, his talent maturing, and himself basking in the warmth of happiness and family well-being. But that happiness would not last long; in 1180, Afak passed away, leaving her young son Muhammad as a living memory of herself.

Nizami was heart-broken; describing the death of his beloved female character in the poem Khosrow and Shirin, the poet recollects his Afak with such pain that it is still not possible to read these lines without excitement.

It was long after Afak’s death that the poet could regain the peace of mind. He would never forget her; the pain, although numbed over the years, would remain with him for the rest of his life.

Having lost Afak, the poet gave all his love to his son Muhammad, bringing him up very seriously. In most of his poems, Nizami allocates a special section titled “Admonition to my son Muhammad”, where he calls him “the light of my eyes”, “dearest son, born from my dear Turkic woman”, etc. These lessons and teachings are important for understanding the pedagogical views of the poet. The moral standards Nizami wanted to instill in his son and the younger generation as whole are still surprisingly noble and socially significant.

The keynote idea of Nizami’s pedagogical views is the thesis which maintains that the socially useful activity should be the measure of merit and personal happiness for a thinking man. The true meaning of life is about good deeds and accomplishments, and about serving the people.

Socially useful activity shall be the meaning of human existence. The desire for glitter and gewgaw is unbecoming of a person bestowed with reason.

According to Nizami, the important condition for becoming a true human and doing good to people is studies, and he persistently urged his son to master knowledge in a persistent manner. It is not once that Nizami mentions the importance of sciences in his counsels to his son.

As can be seen from Nizami’s poems, in his young years Muhammad was fond of poetry and, apparently, wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps. The poet, however, noticed that Muhammad did not possess the genuine, “God-given” talent, 104

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and advised him to renounce ambitious thoughts and engage instead in a “more useful trade”, thereby benefiting people in a more specific and everyday fashion.

We do not have any reliable information about the further fate of Muhammad.

But, as appears from the tone of Nizami’s lessons and counsels written in 1197, he was not particularly happy about Muhammad’s way of life. The only thing that is known to us is that back in 1188, the poet sent a special poetic appeal together with the poem Layla and Majnun to Shirvanshah Akhsitan I, requesting him to have the prince take Muhammad under his wing “in order to prevent him from needing anyone's help, so that his head will not look forward and his eyes backwards.”

There are some reasons to believe that after the death of his father, Muhammad tried to “revise” some of his poems, re-dedicating them to one or another ruler.

Rewriting the dedications in two poems (Iqbal-name and The Seven Beauties), he apparently presented them after his father’s death to other rulers, which resulted in different names appearing in different copies of these very works.

Muhammad left a large offspring; one of his sons (or grandsons) Majd ad-Din Nizami later became “expert” in and a keeper of his grandfather’s (or greatgrandfather’s) works (he knew them all by heart). The famous bibliographer and book-lover Ibn al- Fuvati met him in 1305 (Z.M.Buniatov. Prominent figures of Azerbaijan in the works of Ibn al-Fouvati, - DAS Azerb. SSR. A series of history, philosophy and law. 1979. No. 2., p. 63).

It took Nizami a long time to recover from Afak’s passing. He still lived with his son but would not get married for almost 7 years. Whenever he had time free of worldly affairs, he spent it home, in industrious pursuits among books. We do not know for sure what those “worldly affairs” were that distracted the poet (he often complained about that); according to Saeed Nafisi, he was engaged in agriculture.

Ye.E. Bertels believed that he was teaching. The poet displays a good knowledge of agriculture in his works. Maybe for this very reason Atabey Qizil Arslan presented him the village of Hamduniyan; we are going to discuss this event below. S.Nafisi’s suggestion seems more plausible.

The plot of Khosrow and Shirin had occurred to Nizami as a result of a conjuncture caused as much by the whole course of development of aesthetic and Issue 7

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artistic needs of society as by events occurred in the life of the poet himself. All these factors played the decisive role in creating the greatest lyrical epic poem of the Middle Ages, which is rather a poem-novel than an ordinary poem in terms of its volume and genre.

After Afak’s death, his long and painful meditations resulted in Nizami coming to the idea of perpetuating her image in his poems. He was pondering over the way to implement this decision.

Atabey Jahan Pahlavan personally requested the poet to write a love poem in his honor, promising to reward him generously. This request suited Nizami just fine, for it coincided with his creative plans. The choice of a subject for the poetical narrative was entirely up to Nizami, and he was very happy about it; he was free to choose and interpret the plot as he saw fit.

Another reason that prompted the poet to take on a completely new, unfamiliar genre was new aesthetic demands. The domination of didactic genre and large-scale epics was left in the past. The readers were interested not in legends about shahs or kings, but rather in feelings and experiences of heroes, their passions, and inner world.

Nizami’s first poem The Treasury of Mysteries, as noted above, was warmly received by Bahram Shah and highly appreciated by connoisseurs, thus making the poet extremely popular. However, as a great psychologist capable of feeling new tendencies and spirit of the time, the poet realized that the didactic form of presentation he had used in The Treasury of Mysteries for propagation of his social, political, ethical, and aesthetic views, as well as for artistic embodiment of his teaching of harmonious society and humanism, did not quite match the tastes of the century or aesthetic ideals of his readers. Nizami realized that, no matter how perfect their wording was, his epigrams, exhortations, appeals, and counsels would not be strong enough to send his message to people had he continued to attempt influencing only their minds and left their feelings out.

In other words, love-story novels enjoyed the greatest popularity among readers of his time, so Nizami decided to keep up and create a brand-new type of 106

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poem. The poet set the goal to make the protagonist of his new work an outstanding personality, reveal the inner world of a man, his struggle with himself, and the formation of his character, and show the clash of the mind with impulses of the soul by using means of poetic expression. According to the poet himself, he decided “to show the passion with such vehemence so that all passionate people get attached to his poems.”

Planning to immortalize the memory of his beautiful Afak and at the same time fulfill Atabey’s request, Nizami started writing the poem Khosrow and Shirin in the summer of 1180.

Wishing to make a woman the main protagonist of his poem, Nizami chose the story of Shirin and Khosrow widely known in the Middle East as the subject of the narrative. The plot of this legend totally matched Nizami’s new creative mindset, also enabling him to create the image of an ideal woman and glorify the sublime and allconquering love.

In the process, Nizami faced two obstacles: first, one of protagonists was a woman; second, his main characters, protagonists among them, were pre-Muslim fire worshipers rather than Muslim. The poet therefore had to “create a garden of Eden from hellfire”. Creating fire worshipers’ images was viewed as disrespectful by the Muslim society of those times. Nizami therefore wrote a special chapter “A justification for the writing of the book” to protect himself from accusations of “heresy”.

It was not long that the poet’s fears came true as a shower of accusations rained on him as soon as he began writing the poem. Hearing about the chosen topic and the heroes of the new poem, one of Nizami’s friends rushed to accuse Nizami of “keeping fast, being a light of piety, but still breaking fast with carrion bone,” “gilding bronze”, and “building Ka'ba for idols.” Those attacks eventually affected both the composition and plot of the poem; Nizami, apparently, wrote later on special chapters titled “Khosrow sees the Prophet Muhammad in his Dream”, “The Prophet Writes a Letter to Khosrow”, “The Ascension of the Prophet”, “The Condemnation of the Enviers”, etc. All these chapters, inconsistent with the logical development of Issue 7

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the plot, were deliberately tied to the end of the poem and therefore resemble unnecessary annexes to the completed building. But even special chapters he wrote to preclude possible accusations could not save the poet from attacks.

Among other things, Nizami had to safeguard himself from the rumors that he made a woman the main protagonist in his novel. Nizami was also well aware that Atabey Shams ad-Din Ildeniz’s chief assistant and adviser was his beloved wife Momine Khatun, the mother of Toghrul III, Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan and Qizil Arslan.

It may well be so that Nizami, before starting the poem, met with Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan, told him about his plan, and secured his support.

Before “leaving, like a spirit, for my empty shelter”, retiring to solitude “in which the heart is sea, all sources beating, without an argument with your soul”, Nizami, undoubtedly, used to visit the court, maybe even with his uncle Khwaja Omar or without him, and talk with Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan. But Nizami also knew perfectly well that “one must avoid meeting shahs, like dry hemp must beware of hot fire”. Attracted by candlelight, the moth burns as soon as it touches the fire. As we see, during his entire life Nizami consciously avoided the court and suits of Atabeys, which might even cause Jahan Pahlavan’s displeasure. It is typical that in the chapter glorifying the Atabey in the beginning of the poem the poet apologizes to him for not accompanying him.

Perhaps Jahan Pahlavan was displeased with Nizami for the poet not having presented him his first poem The Treasury of Mysteries, which brought great popularity both to its author and its dedicatee Bahram Shah, the little-known ruler of Erzinjan; it looked like Nizami ignored the powerful Atabey. “I need to explain a lot to you”, Nizami writes, “but I will only say in a few words ... Your humble servant, Nizami, was tarrying for a long time, but you, please do not feel angry”.

The poet finally found a gift worthy of Atabey, his poem. But Nizami still in turn informs Atabey Jahan Pahlavan- between the lines, of course - that the latter does not give him enough credit or favors. So, in his address to Sultan Toghrul III, complaining about the hardships of his life, the poet pleads him to speak for him to 108

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Atabey and tell him: “O Conqueror of the World, where would Nizami get hundreds of boons? Is it not the time to show him some kindness, put his affairs in order, for he is now at a loose end?! This warbler has worked for his entire life, blessing our weal; not drinking a cup of wine from our cellars, he showers us with gratitude and blessings, I am petitioning for him: please send him gifts, at least once”. *Editor’s note: Nizami uses this expression to show that he has never received any gifts from Atabey before.

Apparently, the poet’s reprimands were heeded, and he was promised a reward for his works.

Nizami worked on the poem passionately, wholeheartedly. He started writing early in 1180 and completed it late in 1181. As the poet noted, he wrote “a good book, and should copyists distort it, it will be a great sin unto me.”

From the numerous hints contained in the poem, it becomes evident that both during and after the work the poet suffered heavy adversities, but nothing could make him abandon his life and poetical credo, and give away his heart, the poetic word, “in exchange for piece of bread”. He lived a humble life, away from the noisy and luxurious court, “spending nights to burn, inflame my heart, and to strike fire from the granite of words” in his solitude.

The poet sent his poem to Jahan Pahlavan late in 1181. But it reached the Atabey only in 1182, as he was in military campaign. The poem was accepted well, but generous promises, as we are going to see later, never came true. The poet, on the overall, was no stranger to that treatment.

Having dispatched the poem, Nizami, apparently, went on working on it; he edited, repeatedly re-wrote, carefully trimmed, and amended and revised individual chapters. The second final edition was completed about 1192, yet after the completion of his third poem, Leyli and Majnun. The second edition of Khosrow and Shirin included whole new chapters: “Khosrow sees the Prophet in his dream”, “The message of the Prophet to Khosrow”, “The Ascension of the Prophet”, “Instruction and Completion of the Book”, “Toghrul Shah demands to see the scholar Nizami”, “Condolence on passing of Jahan Pahlavan”.

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The most interesting among these chapters is the penultimate one, in which the poet talks about his trip to Qizil Arslan’s headquarters. This event was preceded by a number of important events that took place in the Transcaucasian political arena.

Jahan Pahlavan died in 1186, and Qizil Arslan became the Atabey (literally father custodian) under the Sultan Toghrul III. During the solemn arrival of the new Atabey at the capital, the ritual prescribed all eminent citizens to go meet his suit. By that time, Nizami had already been recognized as “the best of poets”. The rumors of his holiness and wisdom spread together with his glory. A modest, secluded life far from the worldly bustle, scientific pursuits, selfless creation, abstention, and asceticism led to people regarding him as a saint.

Respecting Nizami’s hugely popular poems and his authority among the people, Qizil Arslan dispatched a special runner to the poet with an invitation to come meet him.

The Atabey received the poet mercifully, with great respect. It is not clear, however, whether Sultan Toghrul III attended that reception.

When Nizami arrived, the Atabey was having a good time; the feast was in full swing: dressed in silk attires, narrow-eyed female Turkic singers were playing the chang and the rud and reciting Nizami’s ghazals. Cup after cup, the wine-scoopers served wine to the shah, and “he was drinking, but it was his enemies who got drunk”. When the poet was heralded in, the Atabey, out of respect “for the poet’s forbearance, not for his turban”, ordered the musicians and singers to stop, had servants remove the wine from the table, and, putting his hand on Nizami’s shoulder, seated the poet next to himself. Nizami invited his reciter (ravi), who read the qasida composed in honor of Qizil Arslan. Then they talked for a long time, and the poet gave “a good advice and counsel befitting the kings”. At the end of the conversation, the Atabey praised the poem Khosrow and Shirin, saying: Both my brother and I, Have a duty to provide you with food, like mother's milk.

My brother, who was the king of the kings of the world, 110

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Was a king and a mighty man.

What did he give you as a reward of gems and treasures?

For the book you’ve worked on for years?

I heard that his lot was to save you (from poverty).

He handed over two villages to you from his domain.

Say, did they or did they not give you those villages?

Did they or did they not send you the khan’s letter for the villages?

(Khosrow and Shirin. Word-for-word translation)

From these questions, Nizami gathered that the late Jahan Pahlavan had given him two villages instead of the promised Chinese silks, male and female slaves, horses in luxurious harnesses, but officials failed to act at the behest of their sovereign. The poet diplomatically responded that it was the death of the Atabey that must have prevented them from acting at his behest, and Nizami hoped his reigning brother, that is, Qizil Arslan, would make it up for him.

Qizil Arslan ordered to grant Nizami Hamduniyan, one of the most povertystricken villages. As it turned out later on, Hamduniyan was a “miserable ruin, narrow like a stove, half a farsang (unit of linear measure) long and half a farsang wide”, located far away, on the border with Georgia; it did not yield any income, but, on the contrary, required a considerable investment, on which “Abkhazians are sharecroppers (and pay a half of the produce as rent to the owner)”. Nizami said later on that his enviers were having a good chuckle over that “royal gift”.

The poet stoically took this blow, remembering that the main thing is realization of the fulfilled duty and the masterpiece he’d created, and not some shah’s reward.

Moved by obviously down-to-earth considerations, the poet got married again in 1187. That marriage, however, was unlucky and a year later his wife, whose name the poet never mentioned, passed away; he got married once more, but his third wife did not last long and passed in 1199; the poet did not retain any special memories of her either.

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The only passing reference to these wives can be found in the poem Iskandarname (Iqbal-name), where the poet recollects Afak and other losses sent to him by fate.

Nizami belonged to the category of artists who suit the action to the word. He always practiced what he preached and followed the moral norms that he strived to instill in his readers. “Reputable” men, as a rule, could have four wives at the same time. Not only would Nizami disapprove of this custom, but he openly opposed the polygyny legalized by the Muslim religion and morality altogether.

The poem Khosrow and Shirin caused a real sensation. Its fame contributed to the glorification of the Atabeys, causing a stir among many rivaling rulers. For this very reason in 1188, Shirvanshah Akhsitan I (1160–1197), who constantly feuded with Jahan Pahlavan and Qizil Arslan and opposed them, sent a special messenger to Ganja, requesting the poet to write a new poem in his honor. The Shirvanshah, wishing to go down in history and immortalize his name in the brilliant poet’s work, wrote to him: I want you, in memory of Majnun’s love, To create a story like a rare pearl...

This story shall be the shah (queen) of all novels, And you must spend on it a treasure of words.

Decorate this virgin bride, With decorations of the Persians and Arabs.

You know, I’m such a connoisseur of words, I can tell out new couplets from the old ones.

If you pay for it with a solid gold [words], You will do miracles, But if you use billon, Then you’d better not start at all.

Look out of the box of thoughts, At the necklace you string pearls on!

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[And therefore] Turkic-like words are not befitting us.

Those of high birth Need high-style words.

(Nizami Ganjavi. Layla and Majnun. Philological translation. pp.53-54)

Here we should pay attention to the expression “Our devotion is not about Turkism, [and therefore] Turkic-like words are not befitting us”.

In their time, Nizami’s biographers held heated discussions over these lines.

Some modern researchers maintain, based on the cited couplet and expression “Decorate this virgin bride, with decorations of the Persians and Arabs”, that Nizami allegedly intended to write the poem in the Turkic language, and, had Akhsitan I not disagreed, he would have done so. But then the question is: who forbade Nizami to write the other poems in the Turkic language? Other researchers (V.Dastgerdi and Ye.E.Bertels) rightly point out that the poet may hint here (and he does it several times, as we saw above in Khosrow and Shirin and other poems) to the famous legend about the “the barbaric Turk” Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni and the poet Ferdowsi who did not receive for his epic Shah-name the award promised to him by the Sultan. However, there are more strings attached in the Shirvanshah’s words. He is clearly trying to bite his sworn enemies, “rough and barbaric Turks”, Atabeys Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan and Qizil Arslan. As we noted above, Nizami had also been promised great fortunes by Muhammad Jahan Pahlavan for the poem Khosrow and Shirin, but he didn’t receive anything, apparently due to the fault of Atabey’s officials. Akhsitan was well aware that the poem Khosrow and Shirin: Was accepted with great cordial joy, And its words were praised highly.

They promised so many estates and fortunes, That it was impossible to believe in it.

A lot of unfolded bales of Chinese silk, A lot of musk that gathered no dust from the air.

(Khosrow and Shirin. Word for word trans.)

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But Shirvanshah also knew that the promised reward had been delayed. The Shirvanshahs came from the ancient Iranian dynasty of Sassanids, priding themselves on their exalted origin. If we interpret the above words in the light of foregoing, the Shirvanshah apparently wanted to say roughly the following: “We are highborn kings and we fulfill our promises, we are true to our words, and we will never do the “lowborn Turks thing”: that is, what Sultan Mahmud of Ghazni did to Ferdowsi and Atabeys Jahan Pahlavan and Qizil Arslan to you. So please use in the poem we request of you the high words befitting our highborn family rather than “rough”, ‘barbaric”, “Turkic-like” words.”

The poet himself had a mind of wide scope; he was well acquainted with literature, science and philosophy of various nations, thus becoming one of the advanced and progressive-minded people of his time. Nizami treated with deep respect the cultures created by the Oriental (Arab, Iranian, Chinese) and European (Greek and Roman) nations. He was an internationalist, unfamiliar with any preaching of national exclusiveness. He realized perfectly that the human race, the sons of Adam, had been created from the same matter, that all people have same feelings of love and rejoice, suffering and grief, that they are all equal before God. But Nizami still loved his nation, honored them deeply, and convincingly showed in his works and each line thereof that his people are capable of any achievement in any field, be it cultural, intellectual, or spiritual.

It was not only out of humanly loyalty that he respected and loved his people, but mainly due to his spiritual and cultural contribution to the whole civilization. In his works, the poet uses the word “Turk” many times, putting across very different, but always truly positive tones and meanings (Azerbaijanis, just the other Turkicspeaking nations, were called Turks in those days).

The word Turk (Azerbaijani) has the following meanings in Nizami’s poetic lexicon: noble, just, kind, humane; Turkic woman: white-skinned, beautiful, virtuous, graceful, slender, freedom-loving etc.

As we can derive from Nizami’s account of events, forced by circumstances and persuaded by his beloved son, he held a grudge and spent four months writing 114

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the poem Leyli and Majnun, a beautiful hymn of high love, the poem that is rightfully considered one of the best pearls in the immortal Quinary.

Editor’s note: On this account, he wrote the following: ‫ﻟﯾﮑن ﭼﮫ ﮐﻧم ھوا دو رﻧﮓ اﺳت‬ ‫ﮐ ﺎ ﻧ د ﯾﺷ ﮫ ﻓ ر اخ و ﺳ ﯾ ﻧ ﮫ ﺗ ﻧﮓ اﺳ ت‬ ‫دھﻠﯾز ﻓﺳﺎﻧﮫ ﭼو ن ﺑود ﺗﻧﮓ‬ ‫ﮔ ر د د ﺳ ﺧ ن از ﺷ د آﻣ د ن ﻟﻧﮓ‬ ‫ﻣ ﯾد ان ﺳ ﺧ ن ﻓر اخ ﺑ ﺎ ﯾ د‬ ‫ﺗﺎ طﺑﻊ ﺳوارﯾﯽ ﻧﻣﺎﯾد‬ But what can you do if the weather is changing?

The mind is broad but the chest is narrow If the passage of legend is tight The flow of words will surely stumble The space for words shall be wide For the poet to let his horse run freely (This fairy-tale does not match the world of my dreams) .‫ﻣﺆﺳﺴﮫ اﻧﺘﺸﺎرات اﻣﯿـﺮ ﮐﺒﯿـﺮ‬:‫ ﺗﮭﺮان‬.‫ ﺑﮭﺮوز ﺛﺮوﺗﯿﺎن‬:‫ ﺗﺼﺤﯿﺢ و ﺷﺮح‬.‫ ﻟﯿﻠﯽ و ﻣﺠﻨﻮن‬،‫ﻧﻈﺎﻣﯽ ﮔﻨﺠﮫ ای‬ 1394 (Nizami Ganjavi. Leyli va Majnun. Tashih va sharh: Behruz Sarvatiyan. Tehran: Moesseseye-entesharateAmir Kabir. 1394. p.45)

As noted in the introduction to the poem, Nizami was first somewhat skeptical about the topic of the request. He believed that the legend of Leyli and Majnun was a complete artistic concept, and therefore “it makes no sense to add more to the opus”.

The love of Leyli and Majnun seemed too restricted and low-scale for the poet who managed to create the multidimensional poem-novel, Khosrow and Shirin.

Besides, the plot seemed to him too gloomy and tragic.

Having read written sources and oral legends, however, the poet took a genuine interest in the lore. It seems that Nizami drew the main material not from folklore versions of the legend, but rather from written sources which existed only in Arabic language through the 12th century. The legend of Leyli and Majnun appeared in the Issue 7

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late 7th or early 8th century among the North Arab tribes (Bedouins). The written narrative of the legend, however, dates back to the beginning of the 10th century.

The main written sources Nizami could use were The Book of Poetry and Poets (Kitab al-Sh'irwa-al-Shu'ara) by Ibn Qutayba (d. 889), The Book of Songs (Kitab alAghani) by Abu al-Faraj al-Isfahani (d. 967), and The Chronicles of Majnun and Layla by Abu Bakr al-Walibi (11th century); the latter is still quite popular in the Orient. The plot of the early story about Leyli and Majnun is almost identical in all above sources; Nizami was also keeping to this plot when writing his poem.

Unlike Khosrow and Shirin, the characters of Nizami’s new poem love each other with equal devotion, and are quite worthy of each other. However, Leyli and Majnun’s dependent position distinguishes them from their counterparts. Both Leyli and Majnun are under the guardianship of their parents; Leyli is the one most constrained in her actions. Majnun’s father is a nobleman, Sheikh, head of the tribe, while Leyli’s leads another tribe; both fathers are slaves to traditions, religious morality, and superficial norms of behavior they are obliged to comply with.

Regardless of their differences, their core is the same: both blindly stick to dogmas once established. Leyli’s and Majnun’s fathers are kind and fair, in their own fashion; they wish their children happiness, but still understand this happiness in their own way. When it turns out that Majnun has fell in some “unusual”, sublime, and passionate love with Leyli, they believe he has “disgraced” himself and gone mad; so, they are trying to save at all costs their beloved children from such misfortune and “shame”.

Nizami showed with remarkable skill the sublime and tragic feeling and the conflict between lightful and natural movements of a human soul and close-minded traditions and merciless laws of the gloomy medieval reality.

As always, Nizami used his poem to propagate high moral standards. He placed small-sized didactic chapters in the beginning of the poem with characteristic titles: “Refusal from serving the kings”, “On the fact that one shall not take daily bread away from people”, “On the fact that one shall not tolerate oppression”,

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“About pleasures of satisfaction with a little”, “On the joy of serving the people”, “On obliteration of vanity”, etc.

Nizami wrote two more poems after Leyli and Majnun; the first of them, The Seven Beauties, was completed in 1197. As to the history of this poem, it should be noted that many issues related to its writing, title, and dedicatee still remain unclear.

Most likely, the poem was dedicated to Suleyman Shah, the Seljuq Sultan of Asia Minor and brother-in-law to Bahram Shah of Erzinjan, who was Nizami’s good acquaintance and the dedicatee of Nizami’s first poem The Treasury of Mysteries.

Suleyman Shah was fond of poetry, he even wrote poems in Persian (some of them came down to us) and patronized poets, writers, and scholars. Among the reasons that moved him to request the poet to write a new poem in his honor was most likely the fame his brother-in-law gained thanks to The Treasury of Mysteries, the high popularity of Nizami’s other poems, Khosrow and Shirin and Leyli and Majnun, and his own keen interest in poetry. Nizami’s first dedicatee, Bahram Shah, and rulers of other provinces were all subjects to Suleyman Shah. The writing started at the request of Suleyman Shah in 1196, when the latter became the supreme ruler of the Asia Minor and assumed the throne in Konya.

The original version of the poem dedicated to Suleyman Shah was completed

by Nizami on 31 July 1197. The chapters with dedication at the beginning and at the end of the book were subsequently revised and the name of Suleyman Shah ibn Kilij Arslan replaced with that of Maragha ruler Ala al-Din Korp Arslan (1174–1208), several couplets added praising Korp Arslan’s sons and family, and the poem presented to him. Most probably, it was done by his son Muhammad after Nizami’s death in 1202, for the poem sent to Suleyman Shah would not prompt any feedback, nor was the author compensated by the customer who was constantly fighting wars far away from his capital town of Konya.

Ye.E.Bertels wrote: “This dedication has really puzzled European Orientalists.

Wilhelm Bacher, obviously, has analyzed the name of Korp Arslan’s eldest son, and believes the poem was dedicated to Nusrat al-Din Bishkin. С.E.Wilson, who translated The Seven Beauties into English, has spent a lot of effort proving that the Issue 7

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poem was dedicated to the Khorezm Shah Ala ad-Din Tekish (1172–1200). All this, of course, results from review of bad manuscripts, in which the name Korp Arslan, unknown to scribes, was partially or completely distorted or even changed to QizilArslan” (Yе.E.Bertels. Nizami and Fuzuli. p.148).

It should be noted, however, that many manuscripts and lithographed publications specify “Kilij Arslan” (that is, the name of Suleyman Shah’s father) instead of “Korp Arslan” and “Qizil Arslan”. This once again proves the assumption that the poem was written at the request of and dedicated to Suleyman Shah, son of Kilij Arslan.

In terms of composition and artistic features, The Seven Beauties is noticeably different from the other poems written by Nizami. The storyline is based on the life and deeds of Shah Bahram Gur, who was a ruler in pre-Muslim Iran.

According to the legend, Bahram married seven beauties, daughters of mighty lords of the “seven climes of the Earth” (division of the entire inhabited world according to medieval science). Each of the seven beauties related to the shah a nice legend before going to sleep. These “inserted novels” form an independent layer within the work. The color of each dome matched that of one of the seven planets known at that time, which ruled the seven climes of the Earth.

Nizami used the story of Bahram’s reign to express once again his views about an ideal ruler who uses his power for the good of the people. The image he drew, however, does not always satisfy the high requirements for such an ideal king.

Bahram possesses many positive traits; he is wise, brave, resolute, and just.

Ascending to power, he begins to rule the country in a wise manner, and it soon turns into a promised land, where people live in happiness. When the drought has stricken, Bahram orders to open the doors of state storages and provide the people with every means necessary. Only one person starved over four years of drought.

But the well-being and constant success have spoiled Bahram and impaired his watchfulness; taking advantage of the careless Shah and his inactive commanders, the Chinese Khakan (khan of khans) suddenly attacks Iran with a huge army. Bahram

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acts boldly and decisively in this difficult moment: he leads his small troops in a surprise attack on the Khakan’s army and prevails.

The Seven Beauties is one of the poems with a prominent mythical element, which dominates in inserted novels (short stories). It is no wonder they enjoy such abundance of mythical and fairy-tale creatures as well as all kinds of spirits and monsters (ghouls, ifrits, divs, loripedes, etc.). However charming this fairy tale flavor may be, Nizami still achieves his goal with amazing authenticity and inimitable poetic skill: he conveys to the reader his ideas of following the path of selfimprovement, protecting good, and fighting against lie and injustice.

Here one can also find deep thoughts and prophetic guesses Nizami’s heritage is so rich with. Contrary to the official Muslim theology and scientific views of the time, Nizami infers that the world and the universe as whole are much wider, larger, and more diverse than perceived by the most daring mind.

By some hints in the text of the poem, one can understand that Nizami was suffering from family troubles when writing it: the cause of the troubles was apparently his twenty-seven-year-old son, Muhammad. He had already settled down to married life, so Nizami had to move out. He led a solitary life and held a grudge against his son.

It was not long before the end of his life that, having completed the gigantic work on the four poems, Nizami decided to summarize his thoughts about the meaning of life and predestination of a man in a grandiose epic. In 1197, he commenced Iskandar-name (The Book of Iskandar), the pinnacle of his creations which surpassed the rest of the works he had written so far in terms of narrative scale.

Despite his age, weariness, and everyday adversities, the poet found strength to complete the work of his life and create a colossal story in two books. The first, larger-size book, is titled Sharaf-name (The Book of Honor), and the second Iqbalname (The Book of Happiness). These titles correctly reflect the poetic plot and the main concept related to the meaning of life, which forms the basis of the epic.

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He created a surprisingly interesting and dynamic image of Iskandar: not the historical Alexander of Macedon, but an ideal ruler who had never existed. In the beginning of the poem, Nizami pictures a young, energetic king, who strives to take the lead among kings and commanders, who is willing to gain fame in battles, campaigns, and conquests. But this is not the only source of his inexhaustible energy.

Iskandar is a warrior and a philosopher who wanders around the world in search of the keys to mysteries of life and universe alike. He discovers and experiences the world in a very eager and purposeful fashion, striving to comprehend the meaning of human happiness and find the ideal true life. Eventually, he finds himself in the Promised Land, a kind of Paradise on earth. There are no masters, servants, patricians, slaves, oppressed, or oppressors in this country of universal happiness.

There are no hostile classes and enmity; people die only of old age, not from illnesses or adversities.

Iskandar then finds out that, apart from establishing social justice, the inhabitants of this happy land also managed to achieve a harmony with nature.

Shocked by what he has seen and what he has heard from the elders of the “City of the Sun”, Iskandar realizes the ideals of a harmoniously structured society.

In light of this truth, all his military successes and “glorious deeds” are now a mere senseless and unnecessary cruelty. He thinks about establishing similar order in his own country as well.

Detailing the ultimate goal of his teaching and creating the image of a harmonious society, which is described as “a valley of abundance and truth, goodness and beauty, peace and love”, the poet instructed his descendants to bring this bright ideal into life.

Iskandar-name is the pinnacle of Nizami’s creation; it is truly encyclopedic in terms of the material and, of course, in terms of rich and succinct ideas within it. Here we discover the very high-souled pathos and humanistic concepts that permeate his other works. Nizami would never stop revisiting them: on the contrary, it was his sworn duty to disseminate them in

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every possible way, and leave them as a solid memory in the minds of contemporaries and descendants.

Iskandar-name was written in the last years of his life. He completed the first part, Sharaf-name, in 1199, and the second part, Iqbal-name, in 1201.

Editor’s note: Iskandar-name is in fact the three-part dastan: in the first part, Alexander subdues countries as a king and military commander; in the second part, he studies sciences and treasures of wisdom created by Persians, Indians, and Chinese, for one can't attain the highest level without wisdom; in the last part, just like Dhu'l-Qarneyn, he rises to the level of prophet, roams the world again and creates a virtuous model of society. ‫ﻣ ﻦ از ھ ﺮ ﺳ ﮫ د اﻧﮫ ﮐ ﮫ د اﻧ ﺎ ﻓﺸ ﺎﻧ ﺪ‬ ‫د ر ﺧ ﺘ ﯽ ﺑﺮ و ﻣ ﻨ ﺪ ﺧ ﻮ ا ھ ﻢ ﻧ ﺸ ﺎ ﻧ ﺪ‬ ‫ﻧﺨ ﺴ ﺘﯿﻦ د ر ﭘ ﺎد ﺷ ﺎ ﯾ ﯽ ز ﻧﻢ‬ ‫د م از ﮐ ﺎر ﮐ ﺸ ﻮ ر ﮔ ﺸ ﺎ ﯾ ﯽ ز ﻧ ﻢ‬ ‫ز ﺣ ﮑ ﻤ ﺖ ﺑﺮ آر ا ﯾﻢ آ ﻧﮕ ﮫ ﺳ ﺨ ﻦ‬ ‫ﮐ ﻨﻢ ﺗﺎز ه ﺑﺎ ر ﻧﺠ ﮭ ﺎی ﮐ ﮭ ﻦ‬ ‫ﺑ ﮫ ﭘ ﯿ ﻐ ﻤ ﺒ ﺮ ی ﮐ ﻮ ﺑﻢ آﻧﮕ ﮫ د ر ش‬ ‫ﮐ ﮫ ﺧ ﻮ اﻧﺪ ﺧ ﺪ ا ﻧﯿﺰ ﭘﯿﻐ ﻤ ﺒﺮ ش‬ ‫ﺳ ﮫ د ر ﺳ ﺎﺧ ﺘﻢ ھ ﺮ د ر ی ﮐ ﺎن ﮔ ﻨﺞ‬ ‫ﺟ ﺪ اﮔ ﺎﻧﮫ ﺑﺮ ھ ﺮ در ی ﺑﺮ د ه ر ﻧﺞ‬ From three seeds I have sown I will grow a big fruit tree I will first knock on the rulers’ door Will start talking of conquering the countries Then I will decorate the word with wisdom Renew it with an old labor Then I will knock on the door of prophecy And Allah will brand him prophet I created three doors, each a treasure of gems And worked on each door individually 1393 .‫ﻣﺆﺳﺴﮫ اﻧﺘﺸﺎرات اﻣﯿﺮ ﮐﺒﯿﺮ‬:‫ ﺗﮭﺮان‬.‫ ﺑﮭﺮوز ﺛﺮوﺗﯿﺎن‬:‫ ﺗﺼﺤﯿﺢ و ﺷﺮح‬.‫ ﺷﺮف ﻧﺎﻣﮫ‬،‫ﻧﻈﺎﻣﯽ ﮔﻨﺠﮫ ای‬ Issue 7

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(Nizami Ganjavi. Sharafnama. Tashih va sharh: Behruz Sarvatiyan. Tehran: Moesseseye-entesharate-Amir Kabir. 1393. p.96)

The date of Nizami’s death has been disputable, but some data are

available that can help resolve this matter once and for all. Someone from Nizami’s family, most likely his son, described the poet’s death and included this chapter in the end of Iqbal-name. It contains the below lines: He was sixty and three years old, And six months later he passed away.

(Nizami Ganjavi. Iskandar-name. Translated by

К. Lipskerov. p.43)

Converting 63.5 lunar years to the common system (the lunar year is 10 days shorter than the solar one), we can accurately calculate that the poet passed away in June 1202.

It is no coincidence that over time Nizami’s poems came to be perceived as something whole, for they naturally formed a distinctive cycle with a pronounced ideological and artistic cohesion. It was not before the poet’s demise that this cycle was titled Khamsa (Quinary) or Panj Ganj (Five Treasures). Khamsa of Nizami predetermined the path of literature development across many nations of the Middle East for many years to come.

Nizami’s humanistic teaching and dreams of equality, brotherhood, freedom, good, love, and fair reconstruction of the society have long been an inspiration for progressive people in their struggle for high ideals. It has been over eight centuries since Nizami was born, but his radiant talent will never cease to amaze us. Nizami, his creations, and his characters will live on and contribute to the best accomplishments of humanity.

SOURCE: “A Poem About Immortal Love” by Prof. Rustam Aliyev., Russian edition., Baku., Yazichi., pp. 21-94. (Алиев Р. “Поэма о бессмертной любви”. Бакы. Язычы.1991. стр.21–94.)

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The List of Global Youth Goodwill Ambassadors

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Eojin Park Yejin Jung Yehin Cho Minjoo Kim Gaeun (Hannah) Cho Daniel Kim Kyung Min Kwon Minseok Kwon Minseo Kim Minjae Kim Yeheun Kim Yuhyeon Kim Jaeyeon Kim Zi Yu Kim Hyejune Min Min young Park Hansoo Bae

Daeun Ha Michelle Han Yuna Jiyoon Han Justin Lee Seren Sung-One Park Jungoo Kang Minchae Kwon Kyubin Kim Seonhan Kim Brian Jun Kim Yoochan Kim Hangyeom Kim Hansung Kim Haelynn Kim Kim Hyungjin Ryu Jihoon

Minjoo Song Minseo Song Min Kyung Song (Katie) Dongeon Kim Jungseo Kwak Samuel B. Lee Sechan Jeon Yelim Lee Somang Yang Haewon Park Yelim Nam Chae A Lee Junmin Kim Dong Hyeok Kim

Seungwoo Baik June J. Souk Junho Shin Sangjun Um Edward Yeon HyunChan Oh Jungin Ok Justin Jeongwoock-Chang Won Seungyeol Yoo Na Yeon Lee Minji Lee Sang Jun Lee Seo Young Lee Katherine Lee Sihyun Lee Yoojeong Lee Hyunseo Lee Saehee Lim Chaelyung Jang Haram Jang Minyoung Chun Minjae Chun Inha Jeon Sung Won Cho Kristen Yoonseo Cho Rachelle Cho Chaekyung Cho Minseo Cha Aimee Kwon Choi Yeun Gye Choi

Moon Honggi Soun Park Chester Chan-Hyun Park Jihoon Suh Seoyoung Sung Si Woo Shin Seoin Chloe Yang Hann Yeo So Jung Ohk Yuhyun Wang Kyuseung Lee Song Eun Lee Yeonwoo Lee Hyunbin Rhee Sunghyun Cho Yeokyung Jo Yoohwa Cho Harim Cho Hyewon Cho Jungmin Han Jiyu Hong Hanna Hong Jee A Hwang Jiwon Hwang Jeeho Jang Jinah Chung YoungJoo Ko Junwoo Kim Seoyoung Kim Dongha Lee Jiahn Lee

JaeHong Lee Min Jung Seo Seungbee Park Haehun Lee Ji Yee Chung Eunsung Koh Hayoung Kong Seoyoung Min Juwan Choi Sungyoon John Park Kyeol Kim Yaeji Yang Ju Won Kim Hyunju Jung Yun Kim Eunjun Lim Seeun Park Jiwoo Park Je Yong Lee Yehwan Chung Sehwan Chung Taeyoung Lee Eunhwan Chung Olivia Chaeri Sohn Aiden Chaemin Sohn Seokwoo Byun Seungwoo Byun Sarah Sun Park Haryeong Lee

Andrew Junwon Lee WanSeok Hong

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Copyright © 2022 All rights Reserved Date of Publication: June 2022 Published by HOBY Korea Youth Activities Association (which is run by Korean Educational Association for Empowerment of Software Address: 2F Myeongdong B/D Teheran-ro 83gil 44 Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06166, Republic of Korea Articles and reviewed and edited byt Yeheun Kim, JungHyun Park, June J. Souk, Yaeji Yang, Song Eun Lee, Gaeun (Hannah) Cho Front cover designed by Yun Kim Page 3 designed by Yeokyung Jo Images in this magazine are Creative Commons license from Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons, Pixabay, Adobe Stock and Flicker, or purchased from Adobe Stock.

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