Shah Abbas through the Eyes of Anthony Shirley: From the History of Anglo-Iranian Relations

Abstract

This article examines the diplomatic activities of the English nobleman Anthony Shirley (c. 1565–1635) in Iran. It analyzes his negotiations with Shah Abbas I (r. 1588–1629) of the Safavid dynasty and his subsequent stay at the Shah’s court. Plans for creating an anti-Ottoman coalition and establishing bilateral economic ties are presented. An analysis is provided of how Shirley contributed to shaping the image of Persia in Renaissance Europe.

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