Persepolis

Question 1

Marjane “Marji” Satrapi

Answer 1

Role: Protagonist, narrator

Traits: Intelligent, rebellious, outspoken, idealistic, emotional

Significance:
Represents the coming-of-age experience in a repressive society.
Her shifting identity (Iranian vs. Western, child vs. adult) highlights cultural conflict and personal growth.
A lens through which readers see the impact of war, exile, and repression.

Question 2

Marji’s Mother (Taji Satrapi)

Answer 2

Traits: Protective, politically aware, emotionally strong

Significance:
Symbol of maternal care and resilience in the face of political upheaval.
Represents modern Iranian women who resist patriarchy quietly but fiercely.
Fears for Marji’s safety yet empowers her with education and independence.

Question 3

Marji’s Father (Ebi Satrapi)

Answer 3

Traits: Rational, politically liberal, supportive
Significance:

Encourages Marji to think critically and understand Iran’s political history.
Represents moderate male support for feminism and education.
Remains emotionally grounded, guiding Marji through turbulent times.

Question 4

Marji’s Grandmother

Answer 4

Traits: Wise, kind, moral compass, nostalgic

Significance:
Embodies moral clarity and traditional values.
Encourages Marji to stay true to herself, even in exile.
Offers generational wisdom and critiques hypocrisy, especially from the regime.

Question 5

Uncle Anoosh

Answer 5

Traits: Idealistic, tragic, revolutionary

Significance:
Former political prisoner and family hero.
Symbol of political resistance and the cost of idealism.
His execution is a pivotal moment in Marji’s loss of innocence.

Question 6

God (as imagined by young Marji)

Answer 6

Traits: Comforting, omnipresent, later absent

Significance:
Reflects Marji’s early idealism and desire for justice.
As she matures and faces trauma, God disappears from her dreams, showing her spiritual crisis.
Symbolizes the conflict between faith and reality.