the kite runner Flashcards
(13 cards)
What are the main themes in the kite runner?
Father and child, Rape and violence, religion, friendship, family, past and memories, guilt and redemption.
What are examples of double standards later in the novel regarding gender?
Poison tongues would flap and she would bear the brunt of that poison not me. I was fully aware of the Afghan double standard that favoured my gender.” This quote shows the sexism prevalent in Afghan society even when in America showing that it is inescapable.
What is the significance of Hassan dying but his son living?
It shows that Amir’s past inactions are permanent and what is done is done but the fact his song is alive and in need of help enables Amir to be rid of his guilt if he saves Sohrab and redeems himself.
What is the connection to Hitler in the novel?
Assef brings up Hitler multiple times showing how he idolises him as a great man with a plan. It shows Assefs extreme beliefs in a superior race.
What can rape represent?
Rape, in the novel, shows how the weaker in society and the ones deemed as bottom of the hierarchy, such as Hazaras, and how the powerful always take advantage and ruin the powerless with the weaker stripped of dignity and left traumatised.
What does winter represent in the novel?
Winter represents freedom and joy as it’s a time of liberation with no school and time to enjoy themselves and play with kites.
What are examples of Amir’s selfish nature?
When Amir was younger and didn’t save Hassan from being assaulted shows Amir’s selfishness. “Sacrificial lamb” shows how Amir willingly sacrifices Hassan if it means he could get the kite and win the love of Baba as Hassan is only a means to an end.
What is Amir’s reaction to Soraya’s honesty?
he admires her for her honesty and ability to come to terms with her past which Amir is unable to do and is therefore able to look up to her for it.
What do kites represent? What do they represent between Amir and Hassan?
Kites represent freedom. Between Hassan and Amir, the kites are rare moments of unity and mutual interest in their strained relationship.
Historical Contexts in the kite runner:
-The fall of the Afghanistan monarchy and rise of the Taliban.
-The soviet invasion
-Aftermath of 9/11
Social and political contexts:
Role of women and significance of the lack of female narratives
Shows the lack of women’s voices in the novel as every woman’s story is told through the perspectives of men. Women’s roles in this novel are either mothers, trying to be mothers of catalysts for men. Soraya wishes to be a mother and is broken when she is unable. Sanubar is a mother who rejects her role and ran away, turning into the bad person and castalsy for \hassan to be a better person.
