Ahhhhh: The Thematically Aroused Persepolis

     In Marjane Satrapi's graphic novel Persepolis, both the text and the illustrations convey her commentary on the human condition. One of these themes conveyed is the government's discontinuation of individual thinking (i.e. Communism). She reveals this theme through the color scheme of the novel, and the demonstration of this society through the text/dialogue. The strictly black and white illustrations suggest a lack of individuality, and expression, or at least an attempt to place restrictions upon individuality. Yet even with this color scheme, Marjane is able to effectively tell her story. Through the actual events within the book, this is what Marjane does: She expresses herself through her home life, and even breaking the rules (Meta, right?). On page 143, after being asked multiple times to follow the dress codes, she continues to wear the bracelet her mother gave her. This eventually leads her to hit the teacher (accidentally), and to her expulsion. Although there is constant forces working against her, that maybe she can't change, Marji continues to assert herself, and think independently, rather than obeying society.