Persepolis: The Complexities of Social Class

Social class is a central theme in Marjane Satrapi's graphic novel, Persepolis. It is a complex and multifaceted issue that is depicted through a range of characters and situations. Through Satrapi's use of characterisation, narrative, and imagery, she portrays the various social classes in Iran and how they impact individuals and society as a whole.

Striking Examples of Social Class

One of the most striking examples of social class in Persepolis is the difference between the wealthy ruling class and the lower classes. Satrapi highlights this through her portrayal of the Shah's regime and its overthrow by the Iranian Revolution. In the early part of the novel, we see how the Shah and his elite advisers live in luxury and excess, with little regard for the struggles of the common people. The Revolution is a consequence of this disconnect between the ruling class and the majority of the population.

This divide is also evident in the school that Marjane attends. She is among the privileged class of students who attend a private school that is reserved for the children of wealthy families. Her classmates are often dismissive of the conditions that the working-class Iranians live under, and show a lack of empathy towards their struggles. This is highlighted through Marjane's classmates' comments about her maid, Mehri, who is pregnant and struggling to make ends meet. They are unable to relate to Mehri's situation and dismiss her as inferior.

Satrapi also shows how social class intersects with gender in Iran. Women in the lower classes face additional hardship and discrimination due to their gender. Marjane's mother is an example of this; she is educated and intelligent, but her opportunities are limited by the society she lives in. Her choice to marry a man who is less educated and less well-off than her highlights the constraints placed on women in Iranian society.

In contrast, Marjane's grandmother is a strong, influential figure who has lived through major historical events. She is a member of the upper class, and her privilege is evident in the way she is able to navigate society. Her position allows her to provide support for her family members, including Marjane, who relies on her grandmother for emotional and practical support.

Techniques Used to Highlight Social Class

Satrapi uses multiple techniques to highlight the impact of social class on individuals, including characterisation and imagery. For example, the stark contrast between the lavish parties attended by the Shah and his advisors and the poverty-stricken neighbourhoods of Tehran is highlighted through the use of black and white imagery. This emphasises the sharp divide between the ruling class and the common people.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Persepolis provides a complex exploration of social class in Iran. Through her depictions of different characters and situations, Satrapi shows how social class intersects with other issues, such as gender and politics. The novel reveals the way in which social class impacts individuals and society as a whole. Persepolis encourages readers to reflect on the ways in which social class operates in their own societies and consider the impact it has on individuals and communities.