In Persepolis, Marjane Satrapi discusses an intricate, real world narrative  that most would expect to be presented in the form of a conventional novel or book. However, by making the choice of using a graphic novel as her means for delivering this narrative she adds an entirely new dimension to her work. The iconographic panels, gutters and tiers make for a very engaging read and allow for students such as myself to further analyze Satrapi’s message at a level that would not be possible without having illustrations on the page. Below are some examples of how illustrations in Persepolis create meaning;

Firstly, the bottom panel of page 103 utilizes genre conventions for comic books, the specific case in point being the lines that illustrator David B. drew in order to place emphasis on the movement of objects and people in the panel. By doing this, Satrapi creates a much more perverse picture than what would be possible by using words exclusively. Another example of illustrations creating deeper meaning in Persepolis occurs on page 27, In the bottom panel we see the Shah of Iran speaking at a podium. There are two components that make this particular panel interesting. Firstly, the white bubble in the top left corner of the panel showing Marji saying “even worse” against a completely black backdrop can be seen to imply the binary opposition between the Shah and Marji. Secondly, the insignia seen on the podium that the Shah is speaking at appears strikingly similar to the insignia of the Luftwaffe (the German airforce in the second world war). This can be seen to be an allusion to the Nazi Regime and it’s oppressive nature.

In Conclusion, Satrapi’s decision to deliver this fascinating narrative in the form of a graphic novel significantly enhances the reader’s experience and leaves a vivid image imprinted on the reader’s mind.