How Did Ji-Li's Identity Change

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The author of the memoir, Red Scarf Girl,Ji-li Jiang, writes, “Once my life had been defined by my goals...Now my life was defined by my responsibilities” (Jiang 263 ). Ji-li’s identity was influenced by the Cultural Revolution, which is a period of time where Chairman Mao wanted to boost agriculture and industry by teaching children new ways and getting rid of ancient ways, in many ways such as school teachings, her family history, and the pressure of changes. Ji-Li changed throughout the story by becoming fearful of her family's fate, striving forward towards Mao, and then giving up on her dreams and takes on her responsibilities. Ji-li changed because of the pressure of the changes, Red Guards lack of care, and her junior high teacher believing in her. The persistent Ji-li Jiang became a gracious Ji-li throughout the story. Ji-li Jiang’s identity was influenced by growing up in the Cultural …show more content…
First of all, one way she changed was because of the realization and danger of the constant changes of the revolution, by An Yi’s grandmother committing suicide, “An Yi’s grandmother had jumped out the window. My lips trembled and my teeth began to chatter” (Jiang 113). Then, she finds that Red Guards give no regards to privacy or feelings which made Ji-li feel defeated, “My sanitary belt! It was lying on the floor, not even covered by its blue plastic bag. … This, of all things, was private. … Now one of those Red Guards, probably a boy, had looked out it--had held it! I felt as if I had been stripped naked in public” (Jiang 138). Lastly, Ji-li gained hope by her teacher, Teacher Zhang, believing in her, “ He paused. ‘You have self-esteem, and you always try to excel. That’s why I believe you are brave enough to eventually overcome the difficulties of life.’”(Jiang 198). Ji-li Jiang as a person changed because of many events in the

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