Plot Points
What significant event happens in Marjane's country in 1979?
The Islamic Revolution
Who is the narrator and main character of Persepolis?
Marjane Satrapi
What theme is shown when Marjane must wear a veil to school?
Oppression and loss of personal freedom
What is a “martyr”?
A person who dies for their beliefs or cause
Why is the book in black and white?
To show contrast, seriousness, and historical tone
What happens to Marjane’s school after the revolution?
It becomes segregated by gender and religious instruction is increased.
What is the profession of Marjane’s father?
He is an engineer.
What theme is reflected in Marjane’s desire to be a prophet?
Identity and justice
What does “Shah” mean?
The king or ruler of Iran
What visual technique shows Marjane’s isolation or fear?
Use of shadows and empty space
Why is Marjane angry when her maid Mehri cannot marry the neighbor boy?
Because of the class differences that prevent their relationship
What is Marjane’s relationship with God like early in the book?
She talks to Him like a friend and wants to be a prophet.
How does Persepolis show the effects of war?
Through fear, loss, and destruction in daily life
What does “fundamentalist” refer to in the book?
Someone who follows a strict interpretation of religion
How does the author show emotion in character faces?
Through exaggerated expressions and minimal lines
What happens to Marjane’s Uncle Anoosh?
He is arrested and executed for being a political prisoner.
What type of books does Marjane secretly read at home?
Marxist and revolutionary books
Through fear, loss, and destruction in daily life
Faith and doubt
What political ideology does Marjane begin to understand through reading?
Communism or Marxism
What symbol appears when someone is in pain or shocked?
Spiky speech bubbles or wide eyes
What tragic event makes Marjane lose faith in God for a while?
The execution of Uncle Anoosh.
What is the name of the maid who is treated like family but not seen as equal?
Mehri
How does Persepolis explore the idea of social class?
Through the treatment of Mehri and the poor
What is the “veil” symbolic of in the story?
Government control and the loss of women's rights
How does the frame size affect the reader’s attention?
Larger frames emphasize important or emotional moments