Oppression Quotes In Persepolis

Oppression can be defined as “the prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or exercise of authority.” This can be clearly seen throughout Persepolis, particularly against the women in Iran, but also towards the poorer socioeconomic classes. The veil and the plastic key painted gold are major symbols featured prominently in the graphic novel, outlining the significance of oppression and its role in Marjane’s life. They help Satrapi vividly present some of the events and issues that transpire, giving the reader a better understanding of the extent to which oppression takes place.

From the first few pages of Persepolis, it is clear that the introduction of the veil was a pivotal moment in Marjane’s life, with the whole first chapter dedicated to it.

Instead of oppression against women, it represents oppression against kids; in particular those of poorer social classes. It is a significant part of the book, as it symbolizes false hope and how the regime is brainwashing the kids for its own benefit. This is first shown on page 99 after Mrs. Nasrine’s son is given the key at school, and she says, “They told the boys if they went to war and were lucky enough to die, this key would get them into heaven.” These lies make the kids excited about going to war, ignoring the pain and horrors that they will have to endure. The word “lucky” makes dying seem like an amazing path to paradise that the kids should be honored to take, so they are more likely to desire that fate. The fact that they keys are only given to poorer kids make it easier for the regime to persuade them to go to war, using the promise of a better life as a bargaining chip which the kids won’t hesitate to receive. The regime uses this to control the boys, and “put them in a trance” (page 101) so that they will be good, fearless soldiers who are not afraid of dying. This form of oppression is blatant abuse of authority, and completely unjust behavior that essentially condemns poor kids to