Analysis of the narrative "Deer, Mouse and Eagle" by Varavini's Marzbannameh from the perspective of ecosemiotics with emphasis on humans, culture and environment

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph.D. student in general linguistics, Peyame Noor University, Tehran, Iran

2 Professor, Payam e Noor University, Tehran, Iran

3 Professor, French Language Department, Tarbiat Modares university, Tehran, Iran

4 Associate Professor, Peyam e Noor University, Tenran, Iran

10.22059/ijar.2025.402410.459938

Abstract

Purpose- Drawing upon the ecosemiotic approach, the present study analyzes the narrative “The Fawn, the Mouse, and the Eagle” from Varavini’s Marzban-nāmeh with the aim of revealing the multilayered structures of interaction among humans, culture, and nature. The main objective is to identify and represent the eco-semiotic signs and codes in the text, along with their ethical, cultural, and educational implications.
Methodology-From a methodological perspective, this study is grounded in a qualitative–descriptive analysis of the narrative text and a multi-level examination of semiotic processes. By conducting a precise analysis of textual and semantic elements, the study explores the multiple dimensions of the narrative.
First Layer: Natural semiotic processes among species and the environment — including the fawn’s call for help to the mouse, symbolizing biological communication and the need for mutual assistance, and the mouse’s avoidant reaction to the threat of the eagle, representing survival mechanisms and natural instinct. These interactions form the semantic foundation of the narrative, providing the groundwork for subsequent layers. Second Layer: Cultural modeling of animal behavior- for instance, the fawn’s aid to the mouse may symbolize altruism and solidarity within human society, whereas the mouse’s reaction can be read as a sign of fear, selfishness, or indifference in the face of challenges. The fawn’s possible bravery in confronting the hunter, or the indifference of some when facing danger, can each be culturally interpreted. Third Layer: Structural diversity and ecological dynamics of the narrative-encompassing hierarchical relations (e.g., predator-prey) and network-based relationships (such as mutual dependency between the fawn and the mouse, or the impact of human actions on the fate of animals) in the narrative framework. This three-layered analysis ultimately reveals three fundamental patterns of human–culture–nature relationships within the story.
Findings-The study’s findings indicate that “The Fawn, the Mouse, and the Eagle” is far more than a simple animal tale; it is a deep reflection of a dynamic and symbolic network of bio-cultural relationships. In this network, symbolic and cultural values—such as the beauty and innocence of the fawn, or human honor embodied in the benevolent man—play a decisive role in shaping the decisions of human characters (e.g., the hunter). Furthermore, the lack of cooperation between the mouse and the fawn—which leads to the mouse’s capture by the eagle—highlights the negative consequences of declining eco-semiotic social capital. This term refers to the weakening of supportive and cooperative networks within an ecosystem. Conversely, responsible human action—such as the benevolent man’s release of the fawn—demonstrates the capacity of culture and human agency to redirect the narrative’s trajectory from destruction towards rescue and restoration.
Conclusions-This research underscores that the narrative of “The Fawn, the Mouse, and the Eagle” is a prominent example of the coexistence and interweaving of biological, cultural, and ethical levels, all simultaneously shaping the meaning and message of the story. The ecosemiotic codes embedded in the text not only reflect real ecological relations but also serve as a powerful mechanism for conveying collective ethics, fostering environmental responsibility, and teaching peaceful coexistence between humans and nature. An ecosemiotic reading of this narrative has the potential to evolve into an indigenous cultural model applicable in environmental policymaking, the design of ecology-oriented educational programs, and the development of cultural content for modern media

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References

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Iranian Journal of Anthropological Research
Volume 15, Issue 2 - Serial Number 28
Indexing Databases
December 2025
Pages 74-88

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