We are the world around us— we are the stories we hear and the texts we read, that is

what influences our identity. From a young age, books are incorporated into our learning to
provide us, as future contributors to society, new voices. Eventually, those are the voices we turn
to for guidance, and our own are amplified in the process. Marjane Satrapi’s, Persepolis, is a
reminder that strong narratives create stronger readers, often because it is the author’s identity
intertwined with its character.
Throughout the many graphics found in Persepolis, readers understand that the Marjane
in the book is truly a reflection of Marjane, the author. Not only is this recognized due to it being
a memoir, but can also be felt through the depth of the character’s emotions. In the beginning of
the book on page 37, Marjane is found in a confused and hurt state as she questions the social
class issue occurring in her society and impacting her family and closest bonds. By utilizing
close up imagery and a blend of sharp versus regular text boxes, the voice of Marjane, the author,
is explored as many other situations would fail to capture how powerful this moment was in
shaping her identity.
According to a publication by the Journal of Social and Personal relationships, in many
instances, people are often more likely to connect with those they relate to. Marjane Satrapi
successfully reaches many individuals despite writing about a topic very specific to herself,
especially for American readers. Despite her unique story living in Iran during a time of
revolution, she focuses on the feelings which define her character rather than their life
experiences alone. An example of this would be Marjane’s yearn for justice and bold personality
when it comes to something she is passionate about, such as on page 144 when she spoke out
against her teacher for lying about the current imprisonments their nation was causing. While
many people across the world have a low chance of being in a religious war of discrimination
and ever needing to defy their own teacher, a large number of civilians have a sense of what is
right and feel entitled to creating change when injustices occur. Readers are more likely to enjoy
a character's story when they are able to imagine themselves in the shoes of whom they’re
reading about. Marjane was able to recognize this and create a narrative that is both eye opening
and relatable for a large audience.
Not only is Marjane’s character a representation for all those who feel a sense of purpose
in standing up for causes they believe in, but she can be used as an inspiration for those whose
voices may go unheard. Marjane’s courage and brave determination is an example to speak up
even in times of conflict— that any person is capable of being a leader as their voice is their
greatest strength. Characters like Marjane challenge readers to go beyond their comfort zones
and seek change even when they may be too afraid to make noise.