Plot & Characters
Which person is the narrator and central figure of Persepolis?
Marjane Satrapi
What type of new government takes over after the revolution?
An Islamic Republic
What theme shows up when Marji speaks up and breaks the rules?
Rebellion and independence
Who does Marji talk to in her imagination for comfort?
God
What type of music does Marji buy secretly?
Punk/metal
Which family member tells Marji stories about fighting for freedom and is later killed?
Uncle Anoosh
What must all girls wear after the revolution?
The Veil
What theme appears when Marji learns the government lies to kids?
Truth vs lies
What item stands for religious control in the book?
The veil
Which pop star’s pin gets Marji in trouble?
Michael Jackson
What war happens while Marji is growing up?
The Iran–Iraq War
What happens to many political prisoners after the revolution?
They are imprisoned, tortured, or executed
What theme is shown as Marji grows up and learns about the world?
Coming of age
Why is Persepolis drawn in black and white?
To show strong feelings and serious moments clearly
Why does the government ban Western music and clothes?
They think it is “bad”/“immoral”
Why do Marji’s parents send her to Austria?
For her safety and better access to personal freedom
What big change happens in schools?
Schools are separated by gender
What theme is shown when some people are treated unfairly or hurt by the government?
Injustice
What do the gold keys given to poor boys mean?
False promises of heaven if they die in war
How does Marji get away when the moral police stop her?
She lies to them
What is one thing Marji does at school that shows she is rebellious?
She argues with her teacher
What do the police do to kids who wear Western clothes or listen to Western music?
They arrest and punish young people for wearing Western clothing or listening to Western music
What theme is shown when Marji feels caught between Iranian and Western cultures?
Identity
What does Marji’s denim jacket stand for?
Rebellion and Western style
Marji’s love for Western music and clothes shows what bigger idea?
She wants freedom