Persia ruled over a region stretching from North Africa to Central Asia and once ruled the world’s first cosmopolitan empire. It is rich in archaeological treasures and continues to unravel the secrets of its history, dating back to the time of Alexander the Great’s conquest of Persia in 330 BC. The documentary The Legacy of the Persian Flame attempts to unravel some of these mysteries through the thoughtful account of two legendary archaeologists who were active decades ago, whose work continues to inspire the efforts of a research team at the University of Sydney, Australia.
When German archaeologist Ernst Herzfeld and his assistant Friedrich Krefter traveled to southern Persia in 1929, they were determined to uncover these buried secrets . However, the climate where they arrive is delicate. The French retained a monopoly on all excavations in Iran, and foreigners were not treated well in the area, especially those of German descent. The film details his attempts to woo members of the Iranian government and the political intrigue that ensued. After much persuasion, the couple were allowed to help excavate one of the most mysterious and least understood areas of archaeological research in the region – Persepolis, the mythical capital of the Persian Empire.
Their findings stand in stark contrast to the prevailing view of the Empire. To their surprise, archaeologists derived an alternative history from their findings. A history shaped by dominant philosophies that are more sensitive and welcoming than the harsh and imperious philosophies of the past.
Based on careful examination of Herzfeld’s diaries written at the time, and dramatized through a series of carefully crafted re-enactments, Legacy of the Flame of Persia succeeds in humanizing these two important characters, giving their struggle a sense of urgency and tragedy and merit . The filmmakers balance this portrait with the efforts of current archaeological researchers, who continue their work under equally stressful circumstances. For these dedicated diggers, the mission of unraveling the mysteries of the past extends far beyond the physical danger and political turmoil that continues to plague the region.
