Reading the novel, “The Kite Runner,” was truly an amazing read, but I can confirm that the experience and level of comprehension is magnified if the reader criticizes the novel through the reader’s response literary theory. Personally, I believe that this literary theory would allow the reader to develop a deeper understanding of the text and to interpret it in a specific perspective of their choice. In fact, by relating their personal life experiences and moral beliefs to the events in the story, they can connect with the text more intimately, and ultimately acknowledge the ideas that the author aims to convey. Through this literary theory, I compare and contrast modern-day society in the real world with the society depicted in the novel. By connecting to the novel’s setting, I experience the emotions, feelings and attitudes that the characters encounter in the story, and I also imagine the characters’ settings more thoroughly. For example, when I distinguish the differences in the conservative Afghan society from western society, I recognize the privilege, freedom and fairness that exists in my life compared to the disadvantaged females and lower caste individuals in the novel. In specific, the comparison of societies teaches me about different cultures and forces me to generate opinions and questions about them. Thus, I am able to observe the development of traditional beliefs in specific societies from different time periods and from different parts of the world. In this time and place, women can act as they please! An example of this is when Amir states, “While I ate and complained about homework, Hassan made my bed, polished my shoes, ironed my outfit for the day, packed my book and pencils” (Hosseini 27). I perceive this as slavery and abuse towards Hassan while traditional Afghans following this tradition would claim that it is Hassan's duty as a Hazara to provide this service to Amir. Contrary to my emotional response, a reader with an Afghan background would be able to accept the responsibilities expected by their culture. My personal life and morality influence how I perceive the context, which provides the ability to enjoy the book in the manner I wish to. This enhances my experience because I design my interpretation of the book. I also acquire a better knowledge of my personality. For example, I once participated in a talent show where my friends and I exhibited our dance choreography. I can never forget the cheering and satisfaction of my participation in this memorable experience. This experience allows me to vividly illustrate the kite-fighting tournament with the colourful kites in the cold sky, enormous crowd, and the sounds of enthusiasm and encouragement. The use of imagery prompts this response from me as Amir describes, “The streets glistened with fresh snow and the sky was a blameless blue...I had never seen so many people on our street. Kids were flinging snowballs, squabbling, chasing one another, giggling” (Hosseini 50). The reader comprehends the story depending on their own past experiences and adds meaning to the author’s writing. Even though the reader gains a profound understanding of the novel, there are still some questions that other readers and I are unable to develop a definitive conclusion for. Considering that the story is narrated through the perspective of Amir, the reader can experience the suffering that Amir undergoes from the moment he witnesses the rape of Hassan. In reality, who suffered the most? Like the novel suggests, is it actually Amir? While Amir witnesses it, it is Hassan who physically undergoes the traumatic event, and while Amir sacrifices his peace, it is Hassan who sacrifices his freedom and life to serve Amir. Hassan’s suffering is never portrayed in the story as he is only described with an intent to serve Amir or express content. Did Hassan suffer at all? Or did he conceal his suffering? What does Hassan think of Amir for the way Amir treats him? Should the novel be read by a psychological professional or a faithful friend, so that the reader’s response can determine an answer? Source
The kite runner. (2020). Hackensack: Salem Press. Image Sources PICTURE OF DANCING- AdrienMClaireB. (2020, July 28). Pixel - extraits. Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://vimeo.com/114767889 PICTURE OF A GIRL READING- Barcellona, C. (2015, October 13). Ask an Editor: Alpha vs. Beta Readers. Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://www.swoonreads.com/blog/ask-editor-alpha-vs-beta-readers/ PICTURE OF AFGHANISTAN WOMEN- Bohn, L. (2018, December 08). Why Afghanistan Is Still the Worst Place to Be a Woman. Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://time.com/5472411/afghanistan-women-justice-war/ PICTURE OF HASSAN- Dk. (2016, October 08). The Kite Runner Analysis: Hassan. Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://owlcation.com/humanities/The-Kite-Runner-Analysis-Hassan PICTURE OF THE BOOK- The Kite Runner. (2020, July 17). Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Kite_Runner PICTURE OF FLYING KITE- The Kite Runner. (n.d.). Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://vocal.media/geeks/the-kite-runner-f72bs0u32 PICTURE OF HASSAN AND AMIR- THROWBACK REVIEW- The Kite Runner: On Afghanistan, Taliban rule and friendship. (2017, September 29). Retrieved July 28, 2020, from https://screen-queens.com/2015/09/24/throwback-review-the-kite-runner-on-afghanistan-taliban-rule-and-friendship/
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7/27/2020 0 Comments The Kite Runner - Feminist TheoryIn the final third of the novel from chapter fifteen to twenty-five, the presence of feminism becomes more visible to the reader by the portrayal of male dominance, gender inequality and by the superior representation of males. To begin, throughout the story, it is evident that men exhibit an attitude of male dominance as they lack respect and care for women. In fact, women are merely depicted as tools that support the patriarchal family system and provide aid in the man’s everyday life. If I were in the women's shoes, I would feel very sad because I want to be granted equal rights. In the period and setting that this story takes place, the rights and desires of women are ignored and not accounted for. I still cannot believe women did not have the right of say and they were just sitting silent while men were taking over their freedom. They are expected to cover themselves literally and figuratively as they wear Hijabs to preserve their chastity and are not allowed to speak up about or against a decision developed by men. I feel disgusted by this treatment of women considering that we now live in a society where gender does not play a role in the individual’s dominance and reputation. A specific example from the text is that women are perceived as sex objects like the female refugee who is tempted in front of her spouse to intimately interact with a soldier and the portrayal of Saunabar as a prostitute. This suggests that in the Afghan society, men abuse their power, authority and control by behaving towards women in an ignorant manner to satisfy their needs. In the book, the control of women is shown as men are able to make decisions for women, command them and assault them. Amir accepts, “I cringed a little at the position of power I'd been granted. And all because I had won at the genetic lottery that had determined my sex” (Hosseini 148-149). Moreover, the novel demonstrates the gender inequality influenced by the Afghan culture that limits and restricts the opportunities of women. In fact, there is an absence of freedom for women, but a limitless amount of freedom offered to men as women lack the ability to contribute to society and make decisions. I believe that since the story takes place in a predominantly muslim society, women are expected to traditionally serve men, behave in a conserved manner and show modesty in their interactions with men. Their actions are limited to a great degree! In fact, society expects double standards of women and controls how they should act during different circumstances which fully restricts their power and say. On the other hand, the men’s actions are not limited and they can act freely without a concern for their reputation. In specific, Soroya, an Afghan woman runs away with her lover and returns back home after some time, and this mistake causes the Afghan community to shun her and criticize her character. Through the use of imagery, Soraya claims, "I make one mistake and suddenly everyone is talking... and I have to have my face rubbed in it for the rest of my life." (Hosseini 179) to reveal the double standards the society forces on females. Women are not even given the opportunity to exercise their power because they do not revolt or oppose societal customs. If they ignore the customs like Soroya once did, the consequence is the damage to their reputation. Soroya confirms the other Afghans’ insulting comment when she states, "Their sons go out to nightclubs looking for meat and get their girlfriends pregnant out of wedlock and no one says a goddamn thing. Oh, they’re just men having fun! I make one mistake and suddenly everyone is talking...I have to have it rubbed to my face for the rest of my life" (Hosseini 179). Even in the real world, it is unfortunate that women are constantly judged and denounced by society for their actions while men are not, and this is the very reason that encourages women to remain inferior and to fear society’s perception of them. In addition, men in the story play a more significant role within the community and are notably represented in comparison to women. When reading the book through feminist literary criticism, I can observe the abundance of male characterization as the main characters are primarily males. In specific, Amir resembles the hero who matures as a person, Hassan is Amir’s supportive friend and Rahim Khan is the nurturing helper of Amir. The absence of females reveals their lack of involvement in the community. In the Afghan community, men are expected to demonstrate masculinity and virility which is evident through Baba’s hope for Amir to become courageous and Assef’s effort to appear strong and controlling. Amir’s passion and admiration for a delicate hobby like poetry is expressed as feminine and a useless activity which implies the insignificant role that feminine activities play in society. Amir assumes Baba’s notion when he thinks, “Real men didn't read poetry — and God forbid they should ever write it! Real men — real boys — played soccer” (Hosseini 15). Baba’s disappointment in Amir’s femininity justifies that the society disvalues feminine qualities and the contribution of women. Source The kite runner. (2020). Hackensack: Salem Press. Image Sources PICTURE OF AMIR AND HASSAN- Acts of Loyalty - The Kite Runner. (n.d.). Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://sites.google.com/site/thekiterunnerbookinfo/home/loyalty PICTURE OF FEMALES- Barlaas, S. (2020, March 14). New decade, new feminism. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://www.dawn.com/news/1540664 PICTURE OF RAHIM KHAN AND AMIR- Carlachavezs. (2013, June 09). The Kite Runner Questions chp. 11-25. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://languagebhldiploma.wordpress.com/2013/06/09/the-kite-runner-questions-chp-11-25/ PICTURE OF MALES IN KITE RUNNER- Goldman, J. (2013, February 04). The Kite Runner – Review. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://applause-meter.com/2013/02/02/the-kite-runner-review/ PICTURE OF FREEDOM- No freedom (of speech etc.) in court: Freedom, Freedom love, Freedom of speech. (n.d.). Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/544865254887780848/ nic_v1=1aK8qZPVsKqMi3sWfYxI4J1LaGfdvZ4hu6i3iA6seioL5gJAdpcUXA%2FgSg2mc4+Y5C PICTURE OF RACE BETWEEN MALES AND FEMALES- Reussink, M. (2019, April 19). 3 Ideas To Address Gender Inequality In The Workplace. Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://medium.com/datadriveninvestor/3-ideas-to-address-gender-inequality-in-the-workplace-60c0dfbbc729 PICTURE OF SORAYA- Review: 'The Stoning of Soraya M.' (2009, July 21). Retrieved July 27, 2020, from https://www.csmonitor.com/The-Culture/Movies/2009/0721/p17s03-almo.html The second portion of the novel can be described in three words, violent, graphic and sad, and through these emotions, it develops the themes of redemption and guilt. In short, after Amir fails to intervene when observing Assef rape Hassan, their relationship is weakened and Amir is unable to forgive himself years later. I mean how can you just be patiently watching your best friend be raped, and not say a single word just to prove yourself right to your father? This portion of the novel reveals that Amir has the opportunity to redeem himself for the unforgettable harm he forces Hassan to undergo, by the encouragement of archetypal figures and by experiencing the archetypal cycle, hero’s journey. I personally believe that the idols in one’s life and the journey one takes to learn from their past, leads them to mature and become a better person. In Amir’s case, Rahim Khan acts like a fatherly figure throughout Amir’s life, and he plays the archetypal role of the mentor. Since the beginning, Rahim Khan represents an inspirational model for Amir, offers motivational advice and guides Amir's actions. In fact, he understands the tremendous amount of guilt and hopelessness Amir feels, and calls Amir to propound how Amir can recover from his trauma. This is evident as Rahim Khan ensures, “There is a way to be good again” (Hosseini 210). This reminds me of the movie, The Karate Kid, as the karate master, Mr. Miyagi teaches Johnny Lawrence to become a better fighter. He commits to and makes a voluntary effort to mentor Johnny by investing his sincere time and energy and offers motivation through the phrase, “You can do it”. Similarly, Rahim Khan’s guidance reveals his sincere desire to lead Amir’s life in the right direction. Also, Amir resembles the archetypal character, the hero, as he overcomes his internal struggle to achieve his sense of peace and freedom from remorse. Furthermore, Amir expliates his wrongs by making the decision to transform and take part in the hero’s journey. This path to heroism commences with cowardice as he is given the opportunity to reluctantly do the right thing, but instead he chooses to easily do the wrong thing; this represents the "ordinary world" because he is living his ordinary, selfish life without respect for others. In his youth, Amir is given multiple opportunities to accept the “call to adventure” and one example is when he does not confess for a mischief that Hassan is blamed for. He says, “I love him in that moment, loved him more than I'd ever loved anyone, and I wanted to tell them all that I was the snake in the grass" (Hosseini 89). The biblical allusion to the devil represents his deception and denial of the call. So, what exactly is the call that he rejects? When Rahim Khan summons him and suggests that he is able to right his wrong, this is the heroic "call to adventure" which Amir finally accepts. He says, “I sat on a window seat abroad a Pakistani International Airlines flight...Waited, in vain, for sleep” (Hosseini 167). It is mentioned that Amir’s guilt develops insomniac behaviour and Amir suggests the call to adventure would resolve this issue. His departure to Pakistan to fix the past shows his bravery and willingness to repent. If I had this kind of courage, I could have faced all my fears. Amir is in the beginning stages of becoming a hero, so I expect that in the future, he will learn what he must do to achieve forgiveness from Hassan. In fact, it is highly likely that he will encounter another dilemma in which he would be required to sacrifice himself, put him at risk of endangerment and do the right thing like he should have when Hassan is being raped. Also, the use of archetypes enhances my ability to understand the implicit meanings of the characters’ emotions and attitudes like the effective use of symbols. A tree is a general symbol of growth, prosperity and eternal life, and the pomegranate tree repeatedly depicted in the story represents the development and strength of their relationship. In the event when Amir throws pomegranates at Hassan to escape his guilt, I can sense their friendship slowly shattering. This is implied when Amir admits, “I hurled the pomegranate at him...Hassan’s cry was pregnant with surprise and pain.” (Hosseini 92). The event of the rape also occurs immediately after Hassan acquires the blue kite, and the archetypal colour, blue, implies immense sadness and Hassan’s neverending loyalty. As Hassan fetches the kite to serve Amir, and due to that loyalty, in turn, he suffers. This hyperbole expresses Hassan's devotion, “For you a thousand time over!” (Hosseini 67). As the reader, I feel that the author does a great job at portraying the characters’ emotions and feelings to the audience. Therefore, archetypes are amazing tools used by the author to support the coming of age of the protagonist and helps me thoroughly understand the story. Sources The kite runner. (2020). Hackensack: Salem Press. The Kite Runner. (n.d.). Retrieved July 24, 2020, from https://www.cliffsnotes.com/literature/k/the-kite-runner/summary-and-analysis/chapter-7 Image Sources Amir Receives A Phone Call From Rahim Khan: Best movie lines, Movie lines, The kite runner. (n.d.). Retrieved July 24, 2020, from https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/701435710689539965/?nic_v1=1aAK4oIm9z7lRCZg++ZnHiVvlvJ3cv%2FAmLyp6b1hgFZk7eej5HQC1qXNAKvepngiN5 Betrayal. (n.d.). Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://ramonekiterunner.weebly.com/betrayal.html Dk. (2018, June 02). "The Kite Runner" Analysis: Rahim Khan. Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://owlcation.com/humanities/The-Kite-Runner-Analysis-Rahim-Khan Pomegranate Tree Kite Runner - tree : VenusVein.com #g4KkJYgGbW: Pomegranate art, Tree art, Art. (n.d.). Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/247557310747400196/?nic_v1=1adSQL8hj5q19qZmJiTZYj1FQpzg5NTGHDrWYDUZrJiL+8ooWd3L+DT67S%2FAkBkrJa Ronik. (1970, January 01). Motifs. Retrieved July 25, 2020, from http://englishblogkiterunner.blogspot.com/2013/06/motifs.html |
The Kite Runner - A Reader's ResponseI have chosen to read the well-renowned novel, “The Kite Runner,” by Khaled Hosseini and the first third of this book from chapter one to six gives an insight of culture, friendship, and overcoming challenges all in one read. There are many interesting characters and one impression that reveals the personalities of the character is the fact that Amir claims to be Hassan’s friend, but simultaneously treats him in a vicious and oppressive manner. Through the use of a simile, the narrator compares the Shi’a with a disease because Hassan has a low societal status. He says, “He wrinkled his nose when he said the Shi’a, like it was some kind of disease” (Hosseini 10). Amir has a higher social status than Hassan and as a Canadian who lives in an equitable society, I find the oppression intended by societal standards to be disgusting. What causes Amir’s perception, admiration, and respect towards Hassan to alter constantly? The societal expectations, his ruthless character, a psychological disorder, or his way of comforting his jealousy?
The author effectively uses the character, Hassan, to portray a disadvantaged, contrasting character to Amir and explicitly reveal the theme of man’s inhumanity to man. The author emphasizes Hassan’s displeasing appearance like his cleft lip and responsibilities to serve Amir. This is evident because when Hassan claims that Amir is his friend, Assef states, "But before you sacrifice yourself for him, think about this...I'll tell you why, Hazara. Because to him, you're nothing but an ugly pet" (Hosseini 61). The reader develops sympathy for Hassan’s lack of freedom and childhood. The sympathy reminds me of the privileged life that I have and the excessive amount of opportunities I have unlike the unfortunate Hassan, so I should cherish the same thing that Hassan is unable to have. I can connect with Hassan because one time, my cousin exposed a secret of mine. I chose to forget the betrayal just like how Hassan chooses to continue to serve Amir regardless of Amir’s disrespect towards him.
Also, another observation is the overwhelming presence of male characters like Ali, Baba, and Rahim Khan who nurture their sons. As a proud woman, the lack of female representation in this portion allows me to experience a sense of dominance and superiority. In fact, one of the few females in the story, Saunabar is described to be a selfish individual and a prostitute.
Furthermore, even though the world has progressed to become more accepting and just, the representation of the historic culture is evident in the story. The story takes place in a society where gender roles, the caste system and other ideals exist by including and expressing those customs, traditions and behaviours. The author’s decision to incorporate these attributes into the story either reveals his opposition to them or his support, but nonetheless, it proves that the portrayed society is judgemental and subjective. In fact, it is justified that Baba, representing society, feels disappointed in the absence of Amir’s masculinity as he suggests that Amir lacks courage and athleticism. Amir overhears Baba and Rahim Khan talking and Baba states, “A boy who won’t stand up for himself becomes a man who can’t stand up to anything” (Hosseini 20). Baba discusses one of Amir’s character flaws, which is his cowardice, and he is reluctant to commend Amir considering the fact that Baba always stands up for what is right, and Amir is always afraid of what will happen to him.
I am unable to accept that a society like this can exist and this discomfort causes me to pity those that have a bad quality of life or live in a limiting society. I am able to sympathize with the situation the characters are in. Sources The Kite Runner. (2020). Hackensack: Salem Press. Image sources Kite Runner & The History if Afghanastan timeline. (1963, January 01). Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/kite-runner-the-history-if-afghanastan Spacehan. (2015, August 01). The Pomegranate Tree Symbol. Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://isukiterunner.wordpress.com/2015/07/24/the-pomegranate-tree-symbol/ The Kite Runner. (n.d.). Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://vocal.media/geeks/the-kite-runner-f72bs0u32 The Kite Runner Analysis - Baba: The kite runner, Great movies, I movie. (n.d.). Retrieved July 25, 2020, from https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/570057265305586767/?nic_v1=1a6Q4nvnSbOuKJ0dkFMP5i3TetQjd8RDykO+HOy4ZrAc28h6gJwkYwWJNT7Qms5F1g Unknown. (1970, January 01). Amir and Hassan's Relationship. Retrieved July 25, 2020, from http://micaelaschaeferisu.blogspot.com/2017/07/amir-and-hassans-relationship.html |