What's the right way to understand a movie's plot? You have to know: The context the author themes

Satrapi's autobiography is a timely and timeless story of a young girl's life under the Islamic Revolution.

WHERE WHEN WHO

WHERE

WHEN 1979

WHO Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini

History of Iran Early Persia was a formidable empire, whose vast plateau rimmed by mountain ranges, was variously invaded by Arabs, Turks and Mongols.

Modern history The discovery of oil in the early 20th century generated international interest in the nation, particularly Great Britain and Russia. A 1907 Anglo-Russian agreement divided up Iran into spheres of influence, though it was later annulled after the First World War. The United States became increasingly interested in Iran following the Second World War, particularly in its oil reserves.

In 1953, the U.S. and Britain helped orchestrate a coup d'etat to oust Prime Minister Mohammed Mosaddeq, bringing the pro-Western monarch, Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, back to power. In the years that followed, Iran forged closer ties with Washington, receiving large amounts of military and economic aid from America until the late 1960s. Iran began ramping up its defence budget, and with the help of American and British defence programs, it became one of the region's strongest military powers.

ISLAMIC REVOLUTION The country also saw increased Westernization, much to the dismay of the clergy that denounced the pro-Western policies and secularization. Rising discord with the hereditary monarch, known as the shah, marked the early 1960s. During the 1970s, Shah Reza Pahlavi faced growing opposition led by exiled spiritual leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

After years of tenuously holding onto power with the backing of the U After years of tenuously holding onto power with the backing of the U.S., Pahlavi was ousted during the 1979 Islamic revolution and Khomeini came to power after returning from years in exile in France.

With that, the pro-West regime of the shah gave way to an official anti-American stance that was openly encouraged by the mullahs and Iran became an Islamic republic.

IDEAS OF IRAN – PRE-SCREENING Is this what you expected from an Iranian film? Where do you think these ideas come from? Iran that we see on screen, is navigated through the eyes of Marjane. Think of key scenes/moments that sum up her character for you. Compare these with your first thoughts on the film's title or when you were told you’d be watching an Iranian film.

Key Scenes Persepolis raises many issues and questions about identity, actions and consequences. Once you've seen the film, think about starting points for discussion and analysis.

PERSEPOLIS

Descendended from the last Emperor of Iran, Satrapi is nine when fundamentalist rebels overthrow the Shah. While Satrapi's radical parents and their community initially welcome the ouster, they soon learn a new brand of totalitarianism is taking over. Satrapi's parents, who once lived in luxury despite their politics, struggle to educate their daughter. The film also shows quotidian life in Tehran and her family's pride and love for their country despite the tumultuous times.

Persepolis presents a child's view of Islamic Revolution and war and her own shifting ideals

Iron Maiden, Nikes, and Michael Jackson become precious symbols of freedom, and eventually Satrapi's rebellious streak puts her in danger, as even educated women are threatened with beatings for improper attire.

Throughout Persepolis, Satrapi discusses the following: THEMES Throughout Persepolis, Satrapi discusses the following:

Culture and Cultural Diversity

History, Governance, Civic Ideals, and Global Connections

Language, Literature, and Language Usage