Day 2: Izzy

Both Persepolis and True Notebooks begin by introducing a variety of authority figures. In Satrapi's Persepolis the authority figures are the speaker's teacher, parents, grandmother, political and revolutionary figures. In Salzman's True Notebooks we are introduced to authority figures by way of the prison guards, Sister Janet, Duane, and the speaker himself.

In Persepolis Satrapi establishes herself as subordinate to her authority figures, primarily because of her age. In True Notebooks the power dynamics vary. The boys are subordinates to the guards, the writing instructors, and Sister Janet due to their prison sentences, but establish their own power dynamics among themselves. And though the writing instructors are seen as authority figures to the inmates, they are subordinate to the guards due to the rules and safety measures of the prison. Regardless of what roles the characters in your book take on their behavior is based on their status and what is expected of them in these roles that they inhabit and this creates interesting, and sometimes uncomfortable, power dynamics.

1. For this response, begin by thinking locally. Choose one character from last night's reading, from either Persepolis or True Notebooks and explore how their behavior is influenced by their society. Please define their title and role. You may choose to explore one individual character, or a specific interaction between your chosen character and another person in the book. (ex. when Marjane's teacher tells her parents she's disturbed because their daughter wants to be a prophet).

2. Now, stepping outside of your text and on a more global level: How are you influenced by the society that surrounds you? By the authority figures in your life? How does your society impact your behavior, thoughts, and attitudes? Please give specific examples!

Your post must be a minimum of 300 words. When you are finished, you must read and comment on at least one of your classmates' posts.