A. G. Seklemian

Cover of The Golden Maiden by A.G. Seklemian, published in 1898

A. G. Seklemian was born in the Armenian village of Bitias, not far from Syria. He grew up hearing classic Armenian fairy tales and folk tales from his family as well the residents of his village. He recounted that it was the custom for the villagers to gather during long winters to recite tales. These tales of fairies, dragons, clever maidens, and mysterious beings helped shape his love of Amernian folklore. Eventually, the author became a teacher in the area of Erzroom, of Armenia proper, and studied the Armenian people from a linguistic point of view. He found that the tales were enduring, and decided to publish a collection of Armenian fairy tales and folk tales. The Golden Maiden and other Folk Tales and Fairy Stories told in Armenia was first published in 1898.