The impact of conflict between tradition and modernity Hanish Sareen 11th Grade

Tradition is the unwritten body of beliefs and customs inherited from generation to generation that individuals must follow. Being modern is to adopt new tendencies whereby individuals follow a new trend or style. In the face of a fundamental paradigm shift in the views and values of 1980’s Iranian Society from progressive liberalism to Islamic fundamentalism imposed by the government, society had no option but to abide by the new expectations. Hence, Iranians were coerced onto complying at risk of being ostracized, humiliated, imprisoned or persecuted to death. Thus, everyone changed on a superficial level adopting a conservative code of dress, gender specific behaviours and espousing propagandist views. The conflict between following tradition and being modern alters individuals’ behaviors and attitudes. Some individuals shamelessly applied double standards between their private selves within their homes and their public image. On another level, more disturbing changes were seen in normally obedient law-abiding citizens who transformed into politicized voices challenging the oppressive control of the government; while others despaired with resignation. Ultimately Satrapi, in her graphic historical novel, Persepolis, portrays...