Ms. Salva's online Classroom

Persepolis is a autbiography graphic novel created by Marjane Satrapi. It tells the story of Satrapi's life growing up during the Iranian revolution. Part one is about her childhood in Iran and the changes she notices in government and herself. Part two is about her journey to Vienna where she was sent by her parents for her safety during the war. She attends high school in Vienna and gets to experience life away from the war, but also experiences prejudice for being Iranian. After almost giving up on life itself, Satrapi goes back to a completely new Iran, one she does not recognize and must adjust to. She starts to rebuild her life and rediscovers parts of herself that others wish she would keep hidden away. It is a beautifully told story of growing up in amazing circumstances and includes lessons on history, world religion, and the study abroad experience. 

For this unit, the class would focus on the coming of age story of Satrapi and the questions she poses, questions about God, education, family legacy, self expression and just being a teenager.  We will also focus on the format of the story - graphic novels - and look at Satrapi's use of imagery throughout the story. 

This book is suitable for 11th and 12th grade students, especially if they are also enrolled in a world history or world religions class.