Question
The Kite Runner Thinking Question #3 (Ch 17) Name: Amir never thinks of Hassan as his friend despite the evident bond between them just as Baba does not think of Ali as his friend (25). What parallels can be drawn between Amir and Hassan's relationship and Jaba and Ali's? How would you describe the relationship between the two boys? What makes Hassan and Amir so different in the way they behave with each other? Had you already guessed at the true relationship between Hassan and Amir? How does this revelation inform your interpretation of the relationship between Hassan, Amir, and Baba? (K/3;A/2;C/2)
Solution
4.2
(254 Votes)
Horace
Elite ยท Tutor for 8 years
Answer
The parallels between Amir and Hassan's relationship and Baba and Ali's are striking, rooted in a shared history and unspoken power imbalance. Both relationships involve a privileged child (Amir/Baba) and a less privileged child (Hassan/Ali) who grow up together. A deep bond exists, with Hassan/Ali demonstrating unwavering loyalty and affection. However, both Amir and Baba fail to fully acknowledge the other as a true "friend," instead viewing them more as companions or, in Amir's case, even as a servant. This stems from the societal structures and ingrained prejudices that elevate Pashtuns (Amir/Baba) above Hazaras (Hassan/Ali). Baba's guilt and complex feelings towards Ali, hinted at throughout the novel, mirror Amir's own guilt and conflicted emotions towards Hassan.The relationship between Amir and Hassan is complex and multi-layered. It's characterized by genuine affection and shared experiences, yet tainted by Amir's jealousy, insecurity, and awareness of his higher social standing. Hassan's unwavering loyalty and devotion contrast sharply with Amir's internal struggles and often selfish actions. Hassan is selfless and forgiving, while Amir is self-absorbed and plagued by guilt. These differences in behavior stem from their personalities, but also from their respective social positions and the unspoken truths that hang over their relationship. Hassan, aware of his lower status, accepts his role with grace and dignity. Amir, burdened by his own weaknesses and the societal pressures surrounding him, struggles to reciprocate Hassan's pure affection.The revelation of Hassan's true parentage significantly alters the reader's understanding of the dynamics between Hassan, Amir, and Baba. It explains Baba's guilt and unusual affection for Hassan, revealing a hidden paternal bond. It also casts a tragic light on Amir's jealousy and betrayal of Hassan, as it becomes clear that they are half-brothers. This revelation deepens the sense of betrayal and lost innocence that permeates the novel, highlighting the devastating consequences of secrets and unspoken truths. It adds another layer of complexity to Baba's character, revealing a man grappling with his own past mistakes and societal constraints. Finally, it underscores the tragic irony of Amir's desperate search for Baba's approval, a search complicated by the fact that the love and acceptance he craved were, in a way, already being shown to Hassan.