Iran can be seen as an “old and great civilization,” (Introduction), or it can be seen as a place riddled with “fundamentalism, fanaticism, and terrorism,” (introduction) In Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi disproves preconceptions of Iranian culture through the use of illustrations in a graphic novel format. First written in French, Satrapi’s graphic novel is set in Iran during the Iranian Revolution, and tells the story of Satrapi’s childhood, through her childhood self, “Marji.” In the graphic novel Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi incorporates religious icons to suggest a loss of individuality leads to the invalidity of preconceptions of Iranian oppression. The incorporation of God and Karl Marx as religious allusions exhibit opposing viewpoints
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“Lower your scarf you little whore!” (133. 7), said the Guardians of the Revolution to Marji. Not only does this infringe on Marji’s right to individuality, but the Guardians also use foul language which is not permitted in the strict religious environment the Guardians were enforcing. The Quran specifies foul words must not be used towards others, “And speak to people good [words]” (Quran). The irony that can be seen through the actions of the Guardians aids Satrapi in conveying the illegitimacy of preconceptions towards Iran. Aside from the strict enforcement of traditional Muslim dress codes, the Guardians also issue a high amount of judgement towards others. “Aren't you ashamed,” (133. 8) said the Guardians to Marji after seeing her unique and expressive outfit. The contrast between Marji’s personal expression and the perspective of The Guardians of the Revolution’s stern regulations convey both Iranian oppression, and the effect a loss of individuality has on Iranians. In Marji’s case, it lead to heightened personal expression as a form of rebellion. During the revolution, Iran was seen by the world as a uniform country, where personal expression was not permitted. Marji’s unique fashion sense and personal identity can be seen through her dress, giving her a sense of individuality, that defies preconceptions of
“Lower your scarf you little whore!” (133. 7), said the Guardians of the Revolution to Marji. Not only does this infringe on Marji’s right to individuality, but the Guardians also use foul language which is not permitted in the strict religious environment the Guardians were enforcing. The Quran specifies foul words must not be used towards others, “And speak to people good [words]” (Quran). The irony that can be seen through the actions of the Guardians aids Satrapi in conveying the illegitimacy of preconceptions towards Iran. Aside from the strict enforcement of traditional Muslim dress codes, the Guardians also issue a high amount of judgement towards others. “Aren't you ashamed,” (133. 8) said the Guardians to Marji after seeing her unique and expressive outfit. The contrast between Marji’s personal expression and the perspective of The Guardians of the Revolution’s stern regulations convey both Iranian oppression, and the effect a loss of individuality has on Iranians. In Marji’s case, it lead to heightened personal expression as a form of rebellion. During the revolution, Iran was seen by the world as a uniform country, where personal expression was not permitted. Marji’s unique fashion sense and personal identity can be seen through her dress, giving her a sense of individuality, that defies preconceptions of