Character guide

Omar Khayyám

major

Also known as Hakim Omar Khayyám, Omar, Khayyám

The astronomer-poet of Persia, central figure and narrator of the Rubáiyát.

Monsieur Nicolas

supporting

Also known as Nicolas

French translator and commentator on Omar Khayyám's work.

Hasan Ben Sabbáh

minor

Also known as Hasan

Founder of the Assassins sect, a historical figure mentioned in the preface.

Nizám ul Mulk

minor

Also known as Mulk, Nizám - ul - Mulk

Vizier to the Seljuk sultan, a historical figure and schoolmate of Omar.

Lucretius

minor

Roman poet and philosopher, referenced for his Epicurean views.

Háfiz

minor

Persian lyric poet, often compared to Omar Khayyám.

The Súfi

minor

Mystical figure representing Sufi philosophy in the text.

The Bonhomme

minor

Also known as the man

Generic everyman figure used in philosophical musings.

Sultán

minor

Title for a ruler, appearing in quatrains as a symbol of power.

Bahrám

minor

Ancient Persian king, mentioned in a quatrain about mortality.