Vocab: https://quizlet.

com/235904107/vocabulary-workshop-level-f-unit-4-set-a-and-b-flash-cards/
Each chapter summary:
https://www.sparknotes.com/lit/persepolis-the-story-of-a-childhood/section1/

Author background (Marjane Satrapi):

- During her youth, Satrapi was exposed to the growing brutalities of the various regimes. Many of
her family friends were persecuted, arrested, and even murdered. She found a hero in her paternal
uncle, Anoosh, who had been a political prisoner and lived in exile in the Soviet Union for a
time.
- Marjane Satrapi wrote Persepolis as a memoir of her life growing up in Iran in order to
unfold details of the normal life she had experienced.
- Her goal with the novel is to not only show the flaws of the media in portraying any
particular culture, but also to shed light on communication as a way to liberate a person from
fundamentalism, fanaticism, and terrorism.
- Satrapi’s decision in writing Persepolis as a graphic novel opened up the range of audience for
her book. Because the book was filled with pages of illustrations, it made reading a lot easier. As
pictures filled up most of the pages with minimal words, it also allowed for a quicker read,
perfect for young adults who may not have the extra spare time. With fewer words on the page, it
furthermore ensures that readers deeply interpret for the meaning rather than just glancing over
the panels.

Socio-economic background:
- Socio economic → Examines complications found within a capitalist system, including social
structures, wealth disparities, and class hierarchies./ The reader looks critically at how social
and economic factors influence the text.
- During the time 'Persepolis' is set, the socio-economic conditions were marked by significant
instability and change. The Iranian Revolution, resulting in the overthrow of the monarchy
and the establishment of an Islamic Republic, brought about major shifts in the country's
socio-economic structure. Before the revolution, Iran was rapidly modernizing and westernizing
under the Shah's rule. However, the revolution shifted towards Islamic fundamentalism,
affecting various economic sectors. The subsequent Iran-Iraq war worsened the situation,
causing economic difficulties such as high inflation, unemployment, and shortages of goods and
services. The middle class, including Satrapi's family, was particularly affected, experiencing a
significant decline in wealth and social status.

Historical background:
- The history in 'Persepolis' is tied to major happenings in Iran's past. The story begins when the
Shah was in power, a time of political problems and demands for change. The Shah, Mohammad
Reza Pahlavi, was seen as controlled by the West. His push for a more modern, less religious
Iran met strong resistance from groups with more traditional religious views. In 1979, this led to
the Iranian Revolution, which removed the Shah from power and set up an Islamic Republic
under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This was a time of big social and political changes, as the
new government tried to hold onto power and apply strict Islamic laws. The story also covers the
Iran-Iraq war, which started in 1980 and went on for eight years. This war added to Iran's
problems, causing much damage and loss of life.
Political Background (The Shah Vs the Islamic Revolution in Iran):

- The story of 'Persepolis' happened during a big change in Iran's government. At first, the Shah,
Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, was in charge. He had full power and was supported by countries
like the United States and the UK. He tried to make Iran more modern and less religious, but he
also controlled everything and was seen as corrupt. His secret police, known as SAVAK, were
very harsh.
- Many people in Iran were not happy with the Shah, especially because they thought he was
just doing what foreign countries wanted. They also didn't like that he wasn't following Islamic
traditions. This led to the Islamic Revolution, led by a religious leader named Ayatollah
Khomeini. He had been forced to leave Iran because he didn't agree with the Shah.
- The revolutionaries wanted to get rid of the Shah and set up an Islamic Republic, and they did
this in 1979. This was a big change in Iran's government. Now, religious leaders were in charge,
and they made strict Islamic laws. They also took away many of the freedoms that Iranians had
when the Shah was in charge, which led to more problems and disagreements.

Genre: 'Persepolis' is a graphic novel, which combines the mediums of literature and visual art in
comic-strip format to tell its story. This genre allows the author to convey complex themes and narratives
in an accessible and engaging way. Moreover, it is also a memoir, as it tells the real-life experiences of
the author, Marjane Satrapi, growing up in Iran during the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War.

Setting: The setting of 'Persepolis' is primarily in Tehran, the capital city of Iran, during the late 1970s
and 1980s. This was a period of significant upheaval and change in Iran's history, marked by the
overthrow of the Shah, the establishment of an Islamic Republic, and the Iran-Iraq war. The setting plays
a crucial role in the novel as it shapes the experiences and worldview of the protagonist. The
socio-political environment of Iran during this time is integral to the narrative and themes of the book.

Title: The title 'Persepolis' refers to the ancient capital of the Persian Empire, which is a symbol of Iran's
rich and complex history. The title suggests a connection between the past and present, highlighting the
long-standing issues of identity, culture, and power that have shaped Iran's history. It also points to the
contrasts and contradictions in Iranian society, between its glorious past and its troubled present,
between tradition and modernity, and between the public and private spheres.

Point of view: 'Persepolis' is narrated from the first-person point of view of Marjane Satrapi, the author.
This perspective gives the reader an intimate and personal look into the experiences and perceptions of a
young girl growing up in Iran during a turbulent time. It allows for a nuanced and humanized depiction of
life in Iran, which challenges stereotypical portrayals of the country and its people. The first-person
narration also underscores the subjective nature of memory and history, as the events are recounted from
Marji's personal perspective.
Foreshadowing in the novel:

1. Marji's Desire for Martyrdom: Early in the novel, Marji expresses a desire to become a
martyr, like her Uncle Anoosh. This foreshadows her later encounters with the harsh realities of
war and martyrdom, particularly when she meets the young boys who are sent to the front lines.
2. Marji's Parents' Activism: The political activism of Marji's parents, particularly their
involvement in demonstrations against the Shah, foreshadows the political repression they
face after the Islamic Revolution takes hold.
3. Uncle Anoosh's Execution: Uncle Anoosh's execution for his political beliefs foreshadows
the danger Marji herself will face for expressing her own beliefs and resistance against the
regime.
4. Marji's Rebellion: Marji's early acts of rebellion, such as wearing a denim jacket and
Michael Jackson button, foreshadow her later, more serious acts of defiance against the
regime, such as attending protests, which ultimately lead to her departure from Iran.
5. The Veil: The imposition of the veil at Marji's school at the beginning of the novel
foreshadows the increasing restrictions on women's rights and personal freedoms that are
imposed after the Islamic Revolution.
6. The Destruction of Wine: When Marji's family hurriedly destroys their wine to avoid
punishment, it foreshadows the daily fear and paranoia that characterize life under the
new regime.
7. Marji's Encounter with God: When Marji loses her faith in God after the execution of
her Uncle Anoosh, it foreshadows her later struggle with her identity and beliefs.
8. The Arrival of Iraqi Bombs: The arrival of Iraqi bombs in Tehran foreshadows the
challenges and horrors that Marji and her family will face during the Iran-Iraq war.

Symbols:

● The Veil: The veil in 'Persepolis' is a powerful symbol of the Islamic regime's enforced
religious ideology. It represents the suppression of individuality and personal freedom,
especially among women, and the state's intrusion into personal lives.
● The Key: The key, given to young boys during the Iran-Iraq war, symbolizes the deceptive
promises made by the Iranian regime. It represents the manipulation of young minds with
promises of paradise after martyrdom, reflecting the government's exploitation of its
citizens.
● The Swallow: The swallow is a symbol of freedom and the desire for escape. It represents
Marji's yearning to break away from the restrictive environment in which she finds herself.
● Bread and Wine: The bread and wine symbolize rebellion and desire for personal freedoms.
Consuming wine, a forbidden act under the new regime, becomes an act of defiance and a
quiet protest against the oppressive rules.
● Cigarette: The cigarette that Marji smokes alone symbolizes her rebellion against her family's
expectations and the rules of her society. It also represents her transition into adulthood,
marking a personal, defiant act of growing up.
● Shaving of the Beard: The act of Marji's father shaving his beard serves as a symbol of silent
protest and rebellion against the Islamic regime. In a society where the beard is seen as a sign
of religious and political conformity, its removal is a personal act of defiance.
 ● Passport: The passport symbolizes freedom and the possibility of escape. In the context of
Marji's story, it represents a lifeline to a world outside the confines of the oppressive regime
in Iran.
● Bird: The bird, which often appears in Marji's conversations with God, symbolizes spiritual
freedom and divine guidance. The flight of the bird can be seen as a metaphor for Marji's
longing for freedom and escape from her oppressive circumstances.
● Cadillac: The Cadillac car used by Marji’s family symbolizes Western influence, wealth, and
the class disparity in Iran. It represents the privileges of the upper class and the cultural divide in
the society.
● Window: The window serves as a symbol of the barrier between Marji and the outside world.
It represents the limited perspective she has of the world because of her confined life under the
Islamic regime.
● Makeup: The use of makeup, especially among Marji and her friends, represents rebellion,
self-expression, and a desire for Western modernity. It is an act of defiance against the
imposed restrictions on women's appearances.
● Pistachios: Pistachios, often served to guests in the novel, symbolize Iranian hospitality and
the desire to maintain a sense of normalcy and tradition amidst the political turmoil.
● Black and White Strips: The black and white strips in the graphic novel symbolize the stark
contrast and division in Iranian society. They represent the dichotomy between good and
evil, freedom and oppression, and reflect the moral and social divisions imposed by the
regime.

Motifs:

Western Popular Culture: Western popular culture is a recurring motif in 'Persepolis.' Marji and her
friends are often seen engaging with Western music, movies, and fashion, despite the regime's ban on
Western cultural products. This motif represents their silent rebellion against the regime's strict rules and
their desire for the personal freedoms enjoyed in the West.

Education: Education is another significant motif in the novel. Marji's parents emphasize the
importance of education and encourage her intellectual curiosity. Despite the regime's attempts to
indoctrinate students, Marji uses education as a tool for resistance and critical thinking.

Martyrdom: Martyrdom is a recurring motif in 'Persepolis.' The Iranian regime glorifies martyrdom in
its propaganda, presenting it as a noble sacrifice for the nation and the Islamic faith. However, Marji's
personal experiences with the loss of loved ones challenge this narrative and reveal the brutal reality of
war and political repression.

Rebellion: Acts of rebellion, both big and small, are a central motif in 'Persepolis.' From wearing
forbidden clothing and makeup to attending political protests, Marji and her family continually resist the
regime's oppressive rules. These acts of rebellion represent their courage and determination to maintain
their individuality and personal freedoms.

Religion: Religion is a pervasive motif in 'Persepolis.' Initially, Marji has a close relationship with God,
but as she witnesses the regime's hypocrisy and cruelty, she questions and eventually rejects her faith.
This motif explores the complex relationship between religion, power, and politics.
Imagery:
Imagery in "Persepolis" is largely communicated through the graphic novel's black-and-white
illustrations, which visually represent the themes, emotions, and experiences of the characters. Here are a
few key examples:

1. Veil Imagery: The veil or hijab is a recurring image in "Persepolis." It symbolizes the
enforced Islamic ideology and the suppression of women's individuality and personal freedom.
The black-and-white illustrations starkly portray the contrast between the girls' individual
identities and the homogenizing effect of the veil.
2. Window Imagery: Windows are often used to symbolize the barrier between Marji and the
outside world. Scenes framed by windows show Marji as a spectator to events, emphasizing
her confined life under the Islamic regime and her longing for freedom.
3. War Imagery: The war between Iran and Iraq is represented through powerful images of
bombing, destruction, and death. These images highlight the brutal realities of warfare and
its impact on ordinary people.
4. Bird Imagery: Birds are often used to symbolize spiritual freedom and divine guidance. The
image of a bird in flight can be seen as a metaphor for Marji's longing for escape and
freedom.
5. Western Culture Imagery: The illustrations often depict Western cultural elements, such
as music, clothing, and symbols of rebellion. These images represent Marji and her friends'
fascination with Western culture and their subtle defiance against the regime's restrictions.
6. Religious Imagery: Religious images, such as depictions of God, veils, and religious leaders,
are used to explore the complex relationship between religion, power, and politics in Iran.
7. Black and White Strips: The entire novel is illustrated in black and white, creating a stark,
high-contrast visual style. This can be seen as a metaphor for the stark contrasts and divisions
in Iranian society, particularly the dichotomy between good and evil, freedom and oppression.

Themes:

1. Individual vs. Society: The theme of individual vs. society is prevalent in 'Persepolis.' Marji
continually struggles against societal expectations and norms imposed by the Islamic regime, from
wearing the veil to conforming to restrictive gender roles. Her quest for personal freedom often puts her
at odds with the society she lives in.

2. Rebellion and Resistance: The theme of rebellion and resistance is a key aspect of 'Persepolis.'
Marji and her family continually resist the regime's oppressive rules, both in their private lives and
through political activism. These acts of rebellion underscore their courage and determination to
maintain their individuality and personal freedoms.

3. Identity and Selfhood: 'Persepolis' explores the theme of identity and selfhood through Marji's
coming-of-age journey. As she navigates the complexities of adolescence against the backdrop of
political upheaval, Marji grapples with questions of identity, nationality, and belief, eventually forging a
unique sense of selfhood.
4. War and Violence: The theme of war and violence is crucial in 'Persepolis.' The Iran-Iraq war and
the violence of the Islamic Revolution have profound impacts on Marji's life and worldview. The novel
explores the brutal realities of war and political repression, challenging the glorified narratives of
martyrdom propagated by the regime.

5. Power and Oppression: 'Persepolis' delves into the theme of power and oppression. The Islamic
regime's control over every aspect of life, from personal appearance to political beliefs, illustrates
the dynamics of power and oppression. The novel critiques the abuses of power and the human cost
of political oppression.

6. The Intersection of the Personal and the Political: The theme of the intersection of the personal
and the political is integral to 'Persepolis.' Marji's personal life is deeply affected by the political events
unfolding in Iran. The novel underscores how political events shape personal experiences and how
personal beliefs can lead to political activism.

7. Loss of Innocence: The theme of loss of innocence is central to Marji's coming-of-age narrative in
'Persepolis.' The political unrest, violence, and societal changes she witnesses force her to confront
harsh realities at a young age, leading to her loss of innocence and a premature understanding of the
world.

8. The Role of Women: 'Persepolis' explores the theme of the role of women in Iranian society. It
critiques the restrictive gender roles and expectations imposed by the Islamic regime and celebrates
the strength and resilience of its female characters.

9. Religion and Faith: The theme of religion and faith is pervasive in 'Persepolis.' Initially, Marji has
a close relationship with God, but as she witnesses the regime's hypocrisy and cruelty, she questions
and eventually rejects her faith. The novel explores the complex relationship between religion, power,
and politics.

10. Influence of Western Culture: The theme of the influence of Western culture is a recurring motif in
'Persepolis.' Despite the regime's ban on Western cultural products, Marji and her friends engage with
Western music, movies, and fashion, representing their silent rebellion against the regime and their
desire for personal freedoms.

Characterization:

Marjane Satrapi (Marji): Marji is the protagonist and the narrator of Persepolis. She is an intelligent,
outspoken, and strong-willed child who grows up during the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Marji's
experiences during this turbulent time shape her perspective on life, politics, and her own identity. She
often questions authority and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in.

Ebi Satrapi (Marji’s father): Ebi is Marji's father, a modern man who encourages his daughter’s
education and independence. He is politically active against the Shah's regime and later becomes
disillusioned with the Islamic Republic. Ebi supports Marji's rebellious spirit and is a source of valuable
information for her about the political situation in Iran.
Taji Satrapi (Marji’s mother): Taji is Marji's mother. She is a loving and protective mother who also
has strong beliefs in justice and equality. She is a fierce critic of the Shah's regime and the subsequent
Islamic Republic. Her fear for her daughter's safety under the repressive regime eventually leads to the
decision to send Marji to Europe for her education.

Anoosh (Marji’s uncle): Anoosh is Marji's beloved uncle who was imprisoned under the Shah's regime
for his communist beliefs. He inspires Marji with stories of resistance and rebellion. His execution by the
Islamic Republic deeply affects Marji and leads to her questioning of faith and justice.

Mrs. Nasrine (Family maid): Mrs. Nasrine is the family's maid. She comes from a lower socioeconomic
background and provides a different perspective on the revolution. Her son's manipulation by the regime,
where he's given a plastic key and promised paradise if he becomes a martyr, exposes the regime's
exploitation of the poor.

Mehri (Family maid and Marji’s caretaker): Mehri is the family's maid and Marji's caretaker during
her childhood. Mehri's relationship with a neighbor boy who doesn't know she is a maid, and the
subsequent heartbreak when he finds out, is Marji's first encounter with class distinction.

Siamak Jari (Political prisoner): Siamak Jari is a family friend who was imprisoned under the Shah's
regime for his political beliefs. His stories about prison and his escape inspire Marji's interest in politics.

Mali (Taji’s friend): Mali is Taji's friend who loses everything in the Iraq bombing and comes to live
with Marji's family. Her story brings the reality of war into Marji's life.

Niloufar (Young woman hidden by Satrapis): Niloufar is a young woman who is hidden by the
Satrapis after her communist boyfriend is executed. She is ultimately captured and executed, symbolizing
the regime's brutal treatment of dissenters.

plot – conflict – climax:

Plot:

'Persepolis' follows the life story of Marjane Satrapi (Marji) from her childhood to her early adult years
during the tumultuous period of Iran's history which includes the overthrow of the Shah's regime, the
Islamic Revolution, and the Iran-Iraq War. The plot portrays Marji's struggles with her identity, faith,
and the societal changes around her. It highlights her experiences of growing up in an oppressive regime,
her rebellious teenage years, and her eventual self-exile to Europe.

Conflict:

The primary conflict in 'Persepolis' is an internal one, where Marji grapples with her identity amid the
societal upheavals in Iran. She constantly finds herself torn between her desire for personal freedom and
the restrictive societal norms imposed by the Islamic regime. This conflict is further amplified by the
external conflicts that Marji faces, including the political repression of the Islamic Republic, the societal
expectations for women, and the horrors of the Iran-Iraq War.
Climax:

The climax of 'Persepolis' occurs when Marji, after a series of rebellious acts, is nearly arrested by the
morality police for wearing makeup and having a conversation with a boy on the street. This incident
highlights the dangerous consequences of her rebellion and leads to the pivotal decision by Marji's parents
to send her away to Europe for her safety and well-being.

Epiphany: An epiphany is a moment of sudden realization or insight in a narrative. In 'Persepolis,' Marji

experiences a number of epiphanies that change her understanding of the world. For example, when she
meets the sons of her maid, who are sent to the front lines as soldiers and given plastic keys to paradise,
she realizes the harsh reality of the government's manipulation and the socio-economic disparities in her
society.

Tone: The tone of a literary work refers to the author's attitude or feelings towards the subject matter and
the audience. In 'Persepolis,' the tone varies from earnest and somber when dealing with serious events
like war and political repression, to humorous and ironic when dealing with the contradictions and
absurdities of life in Iran under the Islamic regime. Marji's youthful and sometimes naive perspective
adds a unique tone of innocence and curiosity throughout the narrative.

Mood: The mood refers to the emotional atmosphere that a piece of writing evokes. In 'Persepolis,' the
mood oscillates between tension and relief, reflecting the volatile political environment in Iran. Scenes of
protests, bombings, and imprisonment create a mood of fear and unease. In contrast, scenes of Marji's
family gatherings, her conversations with God, and her small acts of rebellion create a mood of warmth,
resilience, and hope.

Diction: Diction refers to the choice of words and style of expression that an author makes and uses in a
work of literature. In 'Persepolis,' the diction is straightforward and conversational, reflecting Marji's
young age and perspective. The language is simple yet powerful, with a mix of formal language for the
historical context and informal, colloquial language for the personal experiences.

Non-Linear Writing Structure: A non-linear writing structure is one where the events are not narrated
in a chronological order. Instead, they may be arranged out of order, with flashbacks or leaps forward in
time. 'Persepolis,' however, largely follows a linear structure, narrating Marji's life from childhood to
adulthood. However, there are instances of non-linearity, such as the flashbacks to her family's history
and the history of Iran. These instances provide a deeper understanding of the current events and Marji's
perspective.
● Graphic Weight: Graphic weight refers to how certain images or parts of an image attract the
eye more than others. This is often achieved by using contrasting colors, dense or detailed
imagery, or larger shapes. In a black and white comic, for instance, a dark, heavily inked
image tends to have more graphic weight than a lightly shaded one. It's like a visual hierarchy
that guides the reader's attention, helping to highlight the most important elements in the story.
● Caption: A caption is a box or a section of text that provides narration in comics. This text is
usually separate from the actual scenes happening in the images and can offer important
context, commentary, or insight about the story. Think of it like a narrator's voice in a film or a
book, giving you additional information or explaining something that isn't explicitly shown in
the images.
● Panels and Splashes: In the world of comics, panels are the individual frames or boxes that
contain a single moment of the story. Each panel contains a combination of images and text,
and together, their sequence forms the narrative. A splash, on the other hand, is a larger panel
that takes up the space of several regular panels. Splash panels are often used to depict a
significant event or a dramatic moment in the story, hence they 'make a splash.'
● Emanata: This is a term used in comics to refer to the lines or symbols that come out from a
character or object to represent an emotion or state of being. For example, a light bulb above
a character's head represents an idea or realization, while wavy lines around a character's head
might indicate worry or confusion.
● Onomatopoeia: Onomatopoeia refers to words that sound like what they represent. In comics,
these words are often used to emphasize or represent sounds, and they're typically
incorporated into the artwork. For example, the word "BANG" might be used to represent a
loud noise or explosion.
● Facial Expressions: In graphic novels or comics, a character's facial expressions play a critical
role in conveying their emotions or reactions to events. By paying attention to a character's
facial expressions, readers can gain insight into what the character might be feeling or thinking.
● External and Internal Dialogue: External dialogue in graphic novels is represented by the
conversation between two or more characters and is usually housed within speech bubbles.
Internal dialogue, on the other hand, represents what a character is thinking. These thoughts
can be shown in thought bubbles or as captions, giving readers an insight into the character's
inner feelings, ideas, or dilemmas.