Revision Guide: "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini

Context

Historical Context

● 1970s Afghanistan:
○ The novel begins during a relatively peaceful period under King Zahir Shah's
rule.
○ In 1973, King Zahir Shah is overthrown by his cousin, Daoud Khan, who declares
Afghanistan a republic, introducing political instability.
● Soviet Invasion:
○ In 1979, the Soviet Union invades Afghanistan, leading to a decade-long conflict.
○ The invasion causes widespread destruction and displacement, forcing many
Afghans to flee their homes and seek refuge in other countries.
● Mujahideen and Civil War:
○ Throughout the 1980s, Afghan mujahideen fighters resist Soviet forces with
support from the US and other countries.
○ After the Soviets withdraw in 1989, Afghanistan descends into civil war as
various factions compete for control, resulting in further chaos and suffering.
● Rise of the Taliban:
○ In 1996, the Taliban, a fundamentalist Islamic group, takes control of Kabul and
imposes a strict regime characterized by severe restrictions on personal
freedoms and human rights abuses.
○ The Taliban's rule is marked by the suppression of women and minorities, and
the enforcement of a harsh interpretation of Islamic law.
● Post-9/11 Era:
○ After the September 11 attacks in 2001, the US-led coalition invades Afghanistan
to dismantle the Taliban and al-Qaeda, marking the beginning of a new chapter in
Afghan history.
○ This period brings hope for rebuilding and progress, but also continues
challenges of conflict and instability.

Political Context

● Political Instability:
○ The novel highlights the political instability and power struggles that have
plagued Afghanistan for decades, significantly shaping the characters' lives and
destinies.
○ The constant change in leadership and government has created an environment
of uncertainty and fear.
● Ethnic Tensions:
 ○ The story addresses the longstanding ethnic tensions between the Pashtun
majority and the Hazara minority.
○ Hazaras, like Hassan and Ali, face systemic discrimination and violence,
reflecting the broader societal issues.
● Immigration and Exile:
○ The novel explores the experiences of Afghan immigrants and refugees,
particularly in the United States.
○ Themes of displacement, identity, and adaptation are central to the characters'
journeys as they navigate life in a new culture, dealing with the loss of their
homeland and the challenges of starting anew.

Author Background

● Early Life:
○ Khaled Hosseini was born on March 4, 1965, in Kabul, Afghanistan, to a diplomat
father and a teacher mother.
○ He spent his early childhood in a relatively affluent and educated family
environment, witnessing the socio-political changes in his homeland.
● Emigration:
○ In 1980, following the Soviet invasion, Hosseini's family sought asylum in the
United States and settled in San Jose, California.
○ The experience of being an immigrant and adapting to a new culture deeply
influenced Hosseini's perspective and writing.
● Career:
○ Hosseini trained as a physician and practiced internal medicine before becoming
a full-time writer.
○ In 2003, he published "The Kite Runner," drawing on his personal experiences
and memories of Afghanistan. The novel became an international bestseller.
● Influences:
○ Hosseini's writing is deeply influenced by his Afghan heritage, the socio-political
history of Afghanistan, and his experiences as an immigrant.
○ His works often explore themes of displacement, identity, family dynamics, and
the resilience of the human spirit.

Treatment of Women

● Context:
○ Traditional Afghan society is patriarchal, with women often facing severe
restrictions and limited rights.
○ Under Taliban rule, women's rights were further curtailed, with strict dress codes,
restrictions on education and employment, and limited freedom of movement.
● Novel's Portrayal:
○ The novel portrays the challenges faced by female characters within this
socio-cultural context.
 ○ Soraya: Faces societal judgment and expectations, highlighting the gender
disparities in Afghan society. Her struggles with her past and her relationship with
Amir illustrate the pressure on women to conform to traditional roles.
○ Sanaubar: Hassan's mother, initially shunned for her behavior, ultimately seeks
redemption and reconciliation, reflecting the complex dynamics of gender and
societal expectations.

Themes & Quotes

1. Redemption:
○ Theme: Redemption is a central theme as Amir seeks to atone for his betrayal of
Hassan. Throughout the novel, Amir is haunted by guilt and the desire to make
things right. His journey back to Afghanistan to rescue Hassan's son, Sohrab,
represents his effort to achieve redemption and inner peace. The theme
underscores the idea that it's never too late to seek forgiveness and make
amends for past mistakes.
○ Quote 1: "There is a way to be good again."
■ Analysis: Rahim Khan's words to Amir signify the possibility of
redemption, sparking Amir's journey to atone for his past wrongs.
○ Quote 2: "For you, a thousand times over."
■ Analysis: This statement, repeated by Amir, shows his commitment to
redeeming himself by protecting Sohrab, reflecting his growth and
transformation.
2. Betrayal:
○ Theme: Betrayal impacts the relationships and destinies of the characters. Amir's
betrayal of Hassan by not defending him during a traumatic event, and later,
falsely accusing him of theft, creates a rift that shapes their lives. The novel also
explores the broader societal betrayal of the Hazara people, highlighting themes
of loyalty and trust.
○ Quote 1: "I ran because I was a coward. I was afraid of Assef and what he would
do to me."
■ Analysis: Amir's admission of his fear and cowardice reveals his inner
conflict and the profound impact of his betrayal on his conscience.
○ Quote 2: "Hassan never denied me anything."
■ Analysis: This quote highlights Hassan's unwavering loyalty, which
starkly contrasts with Amir's betrayal, deepening Amir's sense of guilt and
remorse.
3. Father-Son Relationships:
○ Theme: The complex dynamics between fathers and sons are explored through
multiple relationships: Amir and Baba, Hassan and Ali, and later, Amir and
Sohrab. Each relationship reflects themes of approval, disappointment, love, and
sacrifice. Baba's high expectations and Amir's longing for his father's approval
drive much of the narrative, revealing the deep emotional bonds and conflicts
inherent in these relationships.
 ○ Quote 1: "I see you've confused what you're learning in school with actual
education."
■ Analysis: Baba's criticism reflects his high expectations and the
disconnect between his values and Amir's, highlighting the tension in their
relationship.
○ Quote 2: "I am a man who can’t live with himself because he let the love of his
life slip through his fingers."
■ Analysis: Baba's regret and self-reflection provide insight into his
character and his complex relationship with Amir, shaped by unspoken
emotions and expectations.
4. The Past's Influence on the Present:
○ Theme: The novel illustrates how past actions and events continue to shape the
present and future. Amir's memories and guilt over his childhood betrayal drive
his quest for redemption. The impact of the 9/11 attacks on global consciousness
and individual lives further highlights how history influences personal and
collective experiences.
○ Quote 1: "It's wrong what they say about the past... the past claws its way out."
■ Analysis: This quote emphasizes that past actions cannot be buried and
will inevitably resurface, influencing the present and future.
○ Quote 2: "That was a long time ago, but it's wrong what they say about the past,
I've learned, about how you can bury it."
■ Analysis: Amir's reflection underscores the persistent influence of past
events on his life, driving his need to confront and reconcile with his
history.
5. Socio-Political Context:
○ Theme: Afghanistan's tumultuous history, from the fall of the monarchy to the
Soviet invasion and the rise of the Taliban, forms the backdrop for the novel.
These events shape the characters' lives, forcing them to navigate political
instability and cultural changes. The theme underscores the influence of
socio-political context on personal identity and destiny.
○ Quote 1: "There is only one sin. And that is theft."
■ Analysis: Baba's moral philosophy reflects broader societal values and
the ethical implications of individual actions within the socio-political
context.
○ Quote 2: "Wars were waged, the internet was invented, and a few weeks later, it
was all over."
■ Analysis: This quote captures the rapid pace of historical and
technological changes, highlighting their impact on personal and
collective lives.
6. Friendship and Loyalty:
○ Theme: The novel explores the depth of friendship and loyalty, especially
between Amir and Hassan. Despite social and ethnic differences, Hassan's
unwavering loyalty to Amir contrasts with Amir's betrayal, highlighting the
 complexities of human relationships. The theme extends to the loyalty between
fathers and sons, and the connection to one's homeland.
○ Quote 1: "There was a brotherhood between people who had fed from the same
breast."
■ Analysis: suggesting that their connection transcends social and ethnic
divisions. It emphasizes that the bond they share is as strong as that
between siblings, formed through shared experiences and mutual care.
Despite their different backgrounds, the shared act of growing up together
and being nourished in the same way creates an unbreakable tie.
○ Quote 2: "For you, a thousand times over."
■ Analysis: Hassan's repeated declaration of loyalty to Amir showcases his
selfless love and commitment, serving as a poignant contrast to Amir's
actions.
7. Violence and Injustice:
○ Theme: Violence and injustice are pervasive themes, from personal acts of
betrayal to broader socio-political conflicts in Afghanistan. The novel examines
the impact of violence on individuals and society, including the moral and ethical
dilemmas it creates. The characters' experiences reflect the enduring effects of
violence and the struggle for justice.
○ Quote 1: "It always hurts more to have and lose than to not have in the first
place."
■ Analysis: This quote reflects the pain and loss experienced by the
characters, particularly in the context of war and personal betrayal,
highlighting the emotional toll of violence.
○ Quote 2: "In the end, the world always wins. That's just the way of things."
■ Analysis: This statement reflects the harsh realities of life, emphasizing
the pervasive nature of violence and injustice, and the struggle to find
hope and meaning.

Characters

● Amir:
○ Role: The protagonist and narrator of the novel. Amir grows up in Kabul in a
wealthy family, but his life is marked by his betrayal of his friend Hassan. His
journey for redemption is central to the story.
○ Key Traits: Sensitive, conflicted, introspective, courageous (towards the end).
○ Development: Amir's character evolves from a privileged, self-centered boy into
a man seeking redemption and facing his past mistakes.
● Hassan:
○ Role: Amir's loyal friend and half-brother (though this is not revealed until later in
the novel). He is a Hazara, an ethnic minority, and faces discrimination.
○ Key Traits: Loyal, brave, selfless, forgiving.
○ Development: Hassan remains a symbol of unwavering loyalty and purity
throughout the novel, contrasting with Amir's character arc.
 ● Baba:
○ Role: Amir's father, a wealthy and well-respected man in Kabul. He has high
expectations for Amir and is revealed to have his own secrets.
○ Key Traits: Charismatic, strong-willed, principled, regretful.
○ Development: Baba's character is complex, showing both strength and
vulnerability as he navigates his relationship with Amir and his own past actions.
● Ali:
○ Role: Hassan's father and Baba's loyal servant. He is kind and humble, despite
facing discrimination due to his Hazara heritage and physical disabilities.
○ Key Traits: Humble, kind, loyal.
○ Development: Ali's character represents the resilience and dignity of
marginalized individuals, maintaining his integrity despite societal prejudice.
● Sohrab:
○ Role: Hassan's son, who is rescued by Amir. Sohrab's experiences of trauma
and abuse make his journey towards healing central to the latter part of the
novel.
○ Key Traits: Traumatized, resilient, quiet.
○ Development: Sohrab's character highlights the enduring impact of trauma and
the possibility of healing and hope through love and support.
● Rahim Khan:
○ Role: Baba's close friend and a father figure to Amir. He plays a crucial role in
encouraging Amir to seek redemption.
○ Key Traits: Wise, supportive, understanding.
○ Development: Rahim Khan serves as a moral compass in the novel, guiding
Amir towards confronting his past and seeking redemption.
● Assef:
○ Role: The novel's antagonist, a sociopathic bully who later becomes a Taliban
leader. He embodies the themes of violence and brutality.
○ Key Traits: Cruel, arrogant, violent.
○ Development: Assef's character represents the darkest aspects of human nature
and the corrupting influence of power and hatred.

Narrative & Structure

● First-Person Perspective:
○ The novel is narrated by Amir, providing a deeply personal and introspective
account of his life and experiences. This perspective allows readers to connect
intimately with Amir's thoughts and feelings, creating an emotional and engaging
narrative.
● Chronological Structure:
○ The story is told in a mostly linear fashion, with flashbacks to Amir's childhood
interspersed with present-day events. This structure helps to build a sense of
history and the long-lasting impact of past actions on the present.
● Key Turning Points:
 ○ Amir's betrayal of Hassan: A pivotal moment that sets the stage for the rest of
the novel, highlighting themes of guilt and redemption.
○ The Soviet invasion: Marks a significant shift in the political landscape and the
characters' lives, forcing Amir and Baba to flee to the US.
○ Amir's return to Afghanistan: Represents his journey towards redemption and
the climax of the narrative, confronting his past and rescuing Sohrab.

Settings

● Kabul, Afghanistan:
○ The primary setting of Amir's childhood, depicted as both a place of beauty and
violence. The changing political landscape of Kabul reflects the broader themes
of the novel.
○ Significance: Kabul serves as a backdrop for the characters' personal and
political struggles, representing the loss of innocence and the impact of historical
events on individual lives.
● Fremont, California:
○ Represents Amir and Baba's life in exile and their efforts to adapt to a new
culture. This setting highlights themes of displacement and identity, as they
navigate the challenges of starting anew in a foreign land.
○ Significance: Fremont symbolizes the search for a new beginning and the
complexities of maintaining one's cultural identity in a different environment.
● Taliban-Controlled Afghanistan:
○ Depicts the harsh realities of life under Taliban rule, serving as the setting for
Amir's journey of redemption. The contrast between past and present
Afghanistan underscores the novel's themes of change and loss.
○ Significance: This setting highlights the brutality and oppression under the
Taliban, illustrating the stark differences from the Afghanistan of Amir's childhood.

Language

● Imagery:
○ Hosseini uses vivid imagery to bring the settings and emotions to life.
Descriptions of the Kabul skyline, kite fighting, and the pomegranate tree create a
rich, evocative atmosphere.
○ Examples:
■ "The sky was a blameless blue." (Imagery of innocence and peace)
■ "The tree was laden with plump pomegranates, bursting with ripeness."
(Symbol of friendship and the passage of time)
● Symbolism:
○ Kites: Represent freedom, childhood, and the bond between Amir and Hassan.
The kite-fighting tournament is a pivotal event in the novel.
 ○ The Pomegranate Tree: Symbolizes Amir and Hassan's friendship and the
innocence of their childhood. Its later decay mirrors the deterioration of their
relationship.
○ The Slingshot: Represents Hassan's bravery and ultimately becomes a symbol
of justice when Sohrab uses it to save Amir.
○ Examples:
■ "For you, a thousand times over." (Symbol of loyalty and devotion)
■ "I became what I am today at the age of twelve." (Symbol of the lasting
impact of past actions)
● Foreshadowing:
○ Hosseini uses foreshadowing to hint at future events, creating a sense of
anticipation and tension. Early references to Amir's betrayal set the stage for the
novel's exploration of redemption.
○ Examples:
■ "I never thought of Hassan again until I was an adult." (Hinting at
unresolved issues from the past)
■ "There is a way to be good again." (Foretelling Amir's journey towards
redemption)

Treatment of Women

● Context:
○ Traditional Afghan society is patriarchal, with women often facing severe
restrictions and limited rights.
○ Under Taliban rule, women's rights were further curtailed, with strict dress codes,
restrictions on education and employment, and limited freedom of movement.
● Novel's Portrayal:
○ The novel portrays the challenges faced by female characters within this
socio-cultural context.
○ Soraya: Faces societal judgment and expectations, highlighting the gender
disparities in Afghan society. Her struggles with her past and her relationship with
Amir illustrate the pressure on women to conform to traditional roles.
○ Sanaubar: Hassan's mother, initially shunned for her behavior, ultimately seeks
redemption and reconciliation, reflecting the complex dynamics of gender and
societal expectations.

Author's Intentions

● Highlighting Societal Issues:

○ Hosseini aims to shed light on the socio-political and cultural issues in
Afghanistan, including ethnic tensions, political instability, and the impact of war
and displacement.
○ Through the novel, he seeks to generate empathy and understanding for the
Afghan people and their struggles.
● Exploring Themes of Redemption and Forgiveness:
○ The author emphasizes the possibility of redemption and the importance of
confronting and reconciling with one's past.
○ By portraying Amir's journey, Hosseini illustrates the transformative power of
seeking forgiveness and making amends for past wrongs.
● Depicting the Immigrant Experience:
○ Hosseini explores the challenges of displacement and the search for identity in a
foreign land, drawing from his own experiences as an immigrant.
○ The novel highlights the complexities