Rebellious Rhythms Worksheet
Rebellious Rhythms
Persepolis: Chapter 17 (Kim Wilde)
Name:
Date:
Warm Up
The Soundtrack of You
Think about a piece of clothing, a brand, or a specific song that makes you feel like "yourself." If you were forbidden from wearing or listening to it by law, how would that change your daily life?
Analysis
Visual Symbolism
The Secret Coat (Page 128)
Marji's parents risk getting in trouble to smuggle posters inside a coat. What does this "hiding place" tell us about their love for Marji and their feelings about the strict laws?
The "Safe World" (Page 130)
When Marji opens the suitcase at home, it is full of Western gifts. Why does this suitcase feel like a "safe world" for her compared to the dangerous streets outside?
Table Activity
The Clash of Cultures
| Western Influence Item | Marji's Perspective (Identity) | Guardians' Perspective (Decadence) |
|---|
| 1983 Nikes ("Punk Shoes") | | |
| | |
|
| Denim Jacket |
|
|
| Michael Jackson Button |
|
|
| Kim Wilde / Iron Maiden |
|
|
Cool Down
To Each His Own Way
The chapter ends with Marji dancing in her room, saying, "To each his own way of calming down." (p. 134)
In one paragraph, explain how Marji’s rebellion is a survival mechanism rather than just "acting out."
Rebellious Rhythms Slides
REBELLIOUS
RHYTHMS
Persepolis: Chapter 17
Western Influence & Identity
Today's Mission
Analyze
How objects in the story represent Marji's identity and her rebellion.
Compare
Marji's love for music/fashion vs. the government's fear of them.
The Setting: 1983
"During the war, there were no imports from the West." (p. 126)
The borders reopen, and "forbidden" items from America and Europe start appearing on the black market.
Kick-Off
The Soundtrack of You
Think of one item (clothing, brand, or song) that makes you feel like yourself.
If you were banned from using it by law, how would that change how you feel about your own identity?
Visual Symbolism
The Secret Coat
Marji's parents risk getting in trouble to smuggle posters inside a coat (p. 128).
What does this "hiding place" tell us about their love for Marji and their feelings about the strict laws?
The "Safe World"
When Marji opens the suitcase at home, it is full of Western gifts (p. 130).
Why does this suitcase feel like a "safe world" for her compared to the dangerous streets outside?
Two Sides of a Story
Worksheet Activity
Marji's Perspective
These items represent my identity, my freedom, and my happiness.
The State's Perspective
These items are "decadent" (evil) and corrupt our culture.
Complete the table on your worksheet for the 4 key items.
Cool Down
"To each his own way of calming down." (p. 134)
Is Marji just "acting out" like a normal teenager, or is her rebellion a necessary way to survive in a world that tries to control her?
Write 1 paragraph on your worksheet
