Alexander Shirvanzade

Alexander Shirvanzade (1858–1935), born Alexander Movsisian, was an Armenian novelist and playwright and a leading representative of realism in Armenian literature. He was born in Shamakhi and took his pen name from the historical region of Shirvan.

His early experiences in the rapidly changing commercial world of Baku helped shape his interest in class, labor, wealth, family conflict, and social responsibility. He wrote fiction, drama, journalism, and memoirs, portraying modern Armenian life with close psychological and social observation.

Shirvanzade’s best-known works include Chaos, For the Sake of Honor, Namus, and The Artist. Several of his works were later adapted for Armenian film and theater.