In the graphic novel “Persepolis,” the children tend to use a variety of ways to understand the everchanging and chaotic political climate that surrounds them.
Satrapi's novel, especially if considered in the larger context of the second volume of the series, falls into all of these categories. Marjane begins Persepolis as a child and by the end of the novel declares her independence from her mother and father through the ritual of smoking a cigarette. Marjane's parents force her to leave her war torn home for her safety and this begins her journey. Throughout the novel Marjane must reconcile her own beliefs and understanding of the world with the strict cultural rules of the Islamic regime. Children or teens embrace Western culture like rock posters, jean jackets, hamburgers, and Cadillacs.
