In her memoir "Reading Lolita in Tehran," Azar Nafisi explores the complexities of human nature and the inner conflicts that people experience. The quote, "Each of us harbors within him a Judas for his own Christ," reflects the idea that everyone possesses the capacity for betrayal as well as loyalty. This duality can manifest in various relationships, highlighting the struggle between personal desires and moral choices.

Nafisi's work delves into the importance of literature as a means of understanding these internal conflicts. By engaging with classic texts, she and her students examine their own experiences and the political climate in Iran. Literature becomes a lens through which they can confront their "Judas" instincts, fostering self-reflection and resilience in the face of oppression.