Additional Analysis

• The first eleven chapters not only weave into the framework of Reza’s story the informative socio-political backdrop, these chapters also lay the foundation for Reza’s journey—a journey which organically follows the literary arc of the classic hero’s.
• Wrestling is not only mankind’s most ancient form of mortal combat, it is also symbolic of the external and internal struggles faced by Reza, his family and his nation.
• Although Reza is introduced in an ordinary setting as one of ten children in a simple family, his father’s early recognition of his innate wrestling skills foreshadow Reza’s calling.  Reza’s early training to be a world champion wrestler demands a physical and mental discipline only the elite class of warriors can attain—a class of warriors known in the Middle East as Pahlavan.  Pahlavan comes from the ancient Persian term, the Varzesh-e Pahlvani, for the “Sport of Heroes.”  Participants are expected to be pure, truthful, and good tempered and only then strong in body.
• The first TV show Reza views, the Ardeshir v Frazier rematch, is only possible when Reza risks himself to secure the antenna wire.  This pattern of risk and self- sacrifice will define Reza.  At 13, Reza starves himself to the point of collapse to qualify for a national championship match in which he suffers a humiliating defeat.  Reflection of this defeat ingrains in Reza the will to never surrender.
• As Reza comes of age, his nation falls into political turmoil and fate calls him to face significant emotional and physical challenges.  In the tradition of the mythic structure, Reza is aided by a tutor, Mr. Mehdian and the allies of both family and friends.  Their faith gives Reza courage and strength.
• As Shah’s rule disintegrates, Reza is called to risk his life again and again to secure the safety of and basic supplies for his family.   When the ruling power is shifted to Ayatollah Khomeini’s Islamic regime, Reza struggles for a life of the dignity reflective of his family’s core values.   With the epiphany that he cannot live with honor in Iran, he chooses to risk his life by defecting.  Besieged with an internal conflict that this choice may also end the life of his brother locked in an Iranian prison, Reza reasoned Hassan would want him to be free.  But, he must ultimately risk his life and freedom to save his family.

Against the dramatic landscape of world altering events, Reza’s heroric journey unfolds.

Curriculum