Title: Persepolis

Author : Marjane Satrapi

Genre : Autobiography

Have you ever wondered about the impact of war, religious and political constraints on children? This novel gives you a broader picture of the aforementioned statement. Originally written in French and represented as a graphic novel, Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi is a treat to the reader.

Set under the backdrop of the Islamic Revolution in Iran in the 1980s, this novel is split into two parts. Part 1 focuses on a 10 year old Marjane (Marji) , our protagonist. It is her story and she delves into the impact of the war and religious extremism on Iranians, especially women. She considers herself lucky for belonging to an upper middle class family as she has access to books, radio and even western political views.

The involvement of her family and relatives in the political unrest that happens pushes her to take shelter in her basement. She loses her friends and her family fears her safety. She is then sent to Austria for further studies and to escape the war. 

Part 2 begins with Marji settling in Vienna as a student. Not knowing German becomes a barrier which she overcomes. The reader gets to see a rebellious Marji in Part 2 as she explores everything possible, even the things that are banned as per the islamic laws. She returns to Iran to hear about the war and that her uncle had lost his life. This along with her personal battles drives Marji into depression. How she fights her way back to life and overcomes all her obstacles makes up the rest of Part. 

The idea of making this as a graphic novel is commendable as the combination of illustrations and narrations leave a lasting impact on the reader. The life of a teenager and the girl who has seen war and death in life will haunt us. The last line of the book ‘ Freedom had a price’, has so many layers to it.

*First published in YQR