Table of ContentsIntroductionHistorical BackgroundSatrapi's Personal JourneyThe Rise of FundamentalismStruggles with FaithIdentity and BelongingReligion as a Tool of PowerConclusionIntroductionIn Marjane Satrapi's graphic novel Persepolis, the theme of religion permeates the narrative, shaping the lives and identities of the characters amid a backdrop of political unrest. Through the lens of her own experiences, Satrapi explores the complexities of religious belief, the search for personal meaning, and the power dynamics that arise from religious ideologies. Religion, in Persepolis, becomes a prism through which we can examine the individual and collective struggles that Iranians faced during the Islamic Revolution. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Historical Context To fully understand the importance of religion in Persepolis, we must first understand the historical context in which the story takes place. Iran, once a secular state, underwent a radical transformation in 1979 with the Islamic Revolution. The nation became a theocracy, ruled by religious leaders who sought to establish an Islamic Republic. This seismic shift had profound consequences for individuals like Satrapi, who found themselves navigating the complexities of faith and its role in society. Satrapi's Personal Journey Throughout the graphic novel, Satrapi explores her own relationship with religion, offering a deeply personal and introspective account of her experiences. . It began in her childhood, where she was introduced to religious teachings by her parents, who were both highly educated and politically active. Satrapi's parents, particularly her mother, embody a progressive and intellectual interpretation of Islam, emphasizing its humanitarian values ​​and principles of social justice. Through her parents, Satrapi is exposed to a version of Islam that celebrates individual freedoms and challenges dogmatic interpretations. The Rise of Fundamentalism However, as the Islamic Revolution gained momentum, a more conservative interpretation of Islam began to dominate Iranian society. Satrapi depicts the rise of religious fundamentalism, marked by the enforcement of strict dress codes, the suppression of dissenting voices, and the imposition of gender roles. This fundamentalist interpretation of religion becomes synonymous with the oppressive regime and stifles the individual freedoms that Satrapi's parents had instilled in him. Struggles with faith Satrapi's struggle with religion becomes emblematic of the broader challenges facing Iranians during this turbulent period. As a young girl, she struggles with questions of faith, seeking answers and comfort amidst the chaos. She turns to God as a source of comfort, praying fervently for protection and guidance. Yet as she witnesses atrocities committed in the name of religion, her faith begins to waver. The contradictions between the teachings of Islam and the actions of those in power become more and more apparent, leading him to question the very foundations of his beliefs. Identity and Belonging Religion, in Persepolis, also serves as a vehicle for exploring themes of identity and belonging. Satrapi's religious identity, closely tied to her Iranian heritage, shapes her perception of herself and her place in the world. As she moves to Vienna to continue her studies, she finds herself caught between two cultures, struggling to reconcile her roots.