Persepolis

 

Persepolis takes place during the Iranian Revolution. This occurred from the late 1970’s. Though this is being told by Marjane Satrapi as what she remembers as a child the events are true to life. We see the changes of society depending on who was holding the power. This is a time of fight. Many people were protesting for changes but also fighting for power. This was because of Shah law, which many were not fond of. Satrapi realised at a young age that she was always being told what she could and could not do. Her parents rule often stemmed from the laws.

The laws had created a lot of unwanted division amongst society. Women were often subjected to the rules. They could no longer wear what they wanted to and had to wear veils, they no longer could congregate with men in social settings. Satrapi’s was not fond of this as she was divided from many of her friends. The veil was a symbol of modesty and women who didn’t wear this wear judge and even persecuted. Satrapi’s mother hid when her photo had made it across many newspapers here rebelling her veil.

Not only were there divisions because of gender, there was also division because of social class. You weren’t allowed to congregate with those out of your social class unless it was for work purposes. Satrapi’s maid Mehri wasn’t allowed to eat with them as they came from a lower class or even love the boy next door. She wasn’t the best at reading and came from a poor family. Satrapi realized from a young age that this is not Mehri fault but all because of the laws that are in place.

Persepolis gives us great insight into the cultural customs that shape Iran to the country it was in the 1970's. To not shame your family, your culture and your country meant that you were a good Iranian citizens during this time. Satrapi is often seen rebelling her Iranian culture. She knew that women were treated differently in other cultures. She is often influenced by western culture. The music, the clothes and ultimately the sense of freedom for women.

- Shailah