Vazeh

Vazeh (1792(96)-1852), Azerbaijani poet and educator, whose autonym was Mirza Shafi. Vazeh was born in Ganja. He graduated from the Shah Abbas madrasah in Ganja. He was well versed in Oriental languages, literature, theology. Vazeh was a perfect calligrapher. Starting from 1840 he taught Azerbaijani and Persian languages at the Tbilisi District School. In 1844 he founded a literaryphilosophical circle. In 1846 – 1850 he was engaged in teaching at a school in Ganja. In 1850 Vazeh returned to Tbilisi.

Vazeh’s works comprise philosophical poetry, satirical compositions, lyrics and other works of art. His compositions include poems devoted to love, reproaches for despotism, accusations of religious zealotry, pursuit of personal freedom. Vazeh appeared to know Georgia well; his subject good knowledge was reflected in his poetry (Farewell to Tbilisi, etc.). The literary world knows Vazeh’s works thanks to German poet F. Bodenstedt who translated his poetic pieces and incorporated them into his books - 1001 Days in the Orient (1850) and Songs of Mirza Shafi (1851). F. Bodenstedt’s said translations triggered widely publicized literary debates. (See article F.F. Bodenstedt).

Vazeh died in Tbilisi. He was buried at the Muslim cemetery.