Persepolis Themes

One important theme in Persepolis is that of traditional views versus the newer western ideas. This topic is discussed in depth throughout the novel. First of all, this idea can be seen on page 6 when the traditional religious ideas are juxtaposed against the modern scientific ideas that are considered "western." Marjane is placed in front of this image, separating the ideas from each other and showing a clear distinction between the two. This image is very telling about the conflict that is occurring not only in Marjane's world, but in all of Iran. Additionally, this theme is seen on page 15 when the Islamic extremists burn down the movie theater because movies are "western" and do not agree with the traditional views of Islamic people. Many people in Iran at this time like movies because they are modern and new but the traditional religious leaders do not like the modern movies because they show new ideas that they do not want their people to see. These new ideas would hurt their political power because most of the images seen in movies are unbiased or biased against the regime in Iran, which is the main reason that they try to repress these new ideas.  Finally, this theme is seen on page 133 when the "Guardians of the Revolution" stopped Marjane in the street for wearing clothes that do not agree with their religious beliefs.