Part 1) Does Marjane’s identity shift throughout the story? Cite passages that demonstrate this shift? Why do you think this shift occurs? Are there parts of Marjane’s identity that come from factors that she didn’t choose? What are some of these?
Marjane's parents, especially her mom, were very involved in the demonstrations and fighting for their country during the revolution. When Marjane was six years old, she was sure that she was the last prophet. Every night she talked to God until she was determined to be involved in the revolution. ( pgs. 16-17) "Dont you think I look like Che Guevara? Maybe I'll be even better as Fidel Castro! Where are you? Are you there?"..."God, where are you?"-that night he didnt come. After that point, she tried to act more grown up. She wanted to hear about everything that went on during the demonstrations and she asked her grandma about her grandfather being in prison. (pgs 26-28) She was influenced by her nanny; she saw her fall in love with the neighbor and then she wrote the letters for her because Mehri couldn't read or write. Marjane was exposed to more adult acts at this time. (pgs. 34-36) On page 52 she found out her "father wasn't a hero and her mother wanted to kill people...so I went out to play in the street." She wanted to play games that involved tortures if you lose. She felt like she had "diabolical power". Marjane was goofing off in class and got the class suspended for a week. ( 97) She went to her first party in "punk clothing" and then she skipped school with her older friends because she didnt want to be a "chicken". Needless to say, Marjane went through major changes within the few years that this memoir took place. These changes were influenced by her family and kids at school. This happens to just about everyone as they get older.
Part 2) What parts of your identity come from factors you didn’t choose?
Well I dont really have any rebellious times in my life and I've always done well in school. I've lived in the same house for 15 years and so I have watched my "ex friends" do things that i chose to stay away from. They never pushed the smoking or drinking on me so I didnt party thoughtout high school. I dont think i missed out on much. I am always told that I am just like my mother, my family has the biggest influence on my life. My parents have given me the freedom to do as I please as long as it wasnt anything illegal.
Have people you have known ever had a negative reaction to these factors?
Some people were mad that i didnt go to parties with them. I worked alot and didnt really have much time for social events. I chose to do sports and do well in school.
How much control does someone have over their own identity?
I think you have a lot of control over who you become as an adult. If people start to change on you, you dont have to follow. there will always be someone else that fits your personality and morals better. You may look like your family and have to follow certain rules but I learned to live by them and I built my life around them. I dont feel like i've had to change who I was to please anyone but myself.
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