The Kite Runner - Response
AP LIT 4
Forehand
The Kite Runner Response
In the novel, ‘The Kite Runner’ violence is a key aspect of the story, which helps emphasize other elements such as character and plot. Hoesinni’s depiction through scenes of rape, violence, and death only broaden the significance of the novel.
It could be said that rape is the driving point behind the novel. It is the basis behind the entire story line and in this case there are multiple events. When Amir witnesses his friend/brother Hassan being raped by Assef, it shatters his world entirely. The descriptions of ‘his butt muscles’ or ‘blood dripping from biting his knuckles’ create a vivid image of the overwhelming scene. Amir’s choice, being fearful and selfish, choosing to hide and only by stand causes him so much pain for the rest of his life, not physically, but mentally through his overwhelming guilt. Scenes that follow only play on more of the guilt that Amir feels. In the case of ‘the soldier wanting the woman on the bus,’ Baba stands up to the soldier. This not only saves the woman, but also hurts Amir in many ways. In one sense it remind him of Hassan, the guilt of not doing anything to save him, but also because it separates him more from his father than he already felt. Amir always felt like he had nothing in common with Baba, this scene only emphasizes it more by showing that their reactions to situations are not the same. These events cause Amir to live with this guilt his entire life, always dictating parts of his attitude because of what happened. On his return to Afghanistan, his motivation is fueled by the guilt of his actions. When learning about what happened to Hassan’s son, being abused by the same exact guys who abused Hassan, Amir knows he must stand up and fight for what he should have years before. He seeks redemption, or closure from his sins that he has buried within himself. These situations would have never taken place if it weren’t for the significance the rape had on Amir as a character.
Forehand
The Kite Runner Response
In the novel, ‘The Kite Runner’ violence is a key aspect of the story, which helps emphasize other elements such as character and plot. Hoesinni’s depiction through scenes of rape, violence, and death only broaden the significance of the novel.
It could be said that rape is the driving point behind the novel. It is the basis behind the entire story line and in this case there are multiple events. When Amir witnesses his friend/brother Hassan being raped by Assef, it shatters his world entirely. The descriptions of ‘his butt muscles’ or ‘blood dripping from biting his knuckles’ create a vivid image of the overwhelming scene. Amir’s choice, being fearful and selfish, choosing to hide and only by stand causes him so much pain for the rest of his life, not physically, but mentally through his overwhelming guilt. Scenes that follow only play on more of the guilt that Amir feels. In the case of ‘the soldier wanting the woman on the bus,’ Baba stands up to the soldier. This not only saves the woman, but also hurts Amir in many ways. In one sense it remind him of Hassan, the guilt of not doing anything to save him, but also because it separates him more from his father than he already felt. Amir always felt like he had nothing in common with Baba, this scene only emphasizes it more by showing that their reactions to situations are not the same. These events cause Amir to live with this guilt his entire life, always dictating parts of his attitude because of what happened. On his return to Afghanistan, his motivation is fueled by the guilt of his actions. When learning about what happened to Hassan’s son, being abused by the same exact guys who abused Hassan, Amir knows he must stand up and fight for what he should have years before. He seeks redemption, or closure from his sins that he has buried within himself. These situations would have never taken place if it weren’t for the significance the rape had on Amir as a character.