According to the introduction, what stereotypical image is Satrapi trying to dispel?

The title of the book alludes to the ancient capital of Persia, Persepolis. At a deeper level, it alludes to a theme of tension between past and present. Persepolis had been a great historical city of Persia and now holds the burial grounds for many Persian kings. Persepolis represents a flourishing of culture. The purpose of the novel, as the author says, is partly to contrast this previous great culture with a culture of intolerance and fundamentalism found in modern day Iran. The title also alludes to the fact that within its fundamentalist exterior, a great Iranian culture and people still exist, one that the Western world is not often allowed to see.

Source(s): http://www.gradesaver.com/persepolis-the-story-of-a-childhood/study-guide/section1/