[45.] At my boy's years. See introductory note to poem.
[60.] common fight. In the sense of a general engagement. Be sure to catch the reason why Sohrab makes his request.
[61.] sunk. That is, lost sight of.
[67.] common chance. See note, l. 60. Which would be the more dangerous, a "single" or "common" combat? Why?
[70.] To find a father thou hast never seen. See introductory note to poem.
[82.] Seistan. A province of southwest Afghanistan bordering on the Persian province of Yezd. It is intersected by the Helmund River (l. 751), which flows into the Hamoon Lake, now scarcely more than a morass. On an island in this lake are ruins of fortifications called Fort Rustum. This territory was long held by Rustum's [p.157] family, feudatory to the Persian kings.
Zal. Rustum's father, ruler of Seistan. See note, l. [232].
[83-85.] Whether that ... or in some quarrel, etc. Either because his mighty strength ... or because of some quarrel, etc.
[85.] Persian King. That is, Kai Kaoos (or Kai Khosroo). See introductory note to poem; also note, l. [223].
[86-91.] There go! etc. The touching solicitation of these lines is wholly Arnold's.
[99.] Why ruler's staff, no sword?