Amir’s Struggles
What choice does Amir make after Hassan is assaulted, and how does this shape his guilt?
He stays silent and does not help Hassan → this betrayal creates lifelong guilt.
Give one example of Baba showing bravery in Afghanistan.
He stands up to a Russian soldier trying to assault a woman.
What important secret does Soraya share with Amir before they marry?
She once ran away with another man.
What weapon does Sohrab use to save Amir from Assef?
A slingshot.
Which theme is represented by Amir flying a kite with Sohrab at the end of the book?
Redemption and hope.
Theme Focus
The novel The Kite Runner explores cycles of betrayal and redemption. Choose one moment of betrayal and one moment of redemption from the story. Explain how they are connected.
- Betrayal: Amir framing Hassan, Amir staying silent, Baba’s secret, etc.
- Redemption: Amir rescuing Sohrab, standing up to Assef, telling Soraya the truth, etc.
- Connection: Redemption attempts address earlier betrayals and move Amir toward healing.
Later in the novel, what does Amir do that begins his path toward redemption?
He returns to Pakistan after Rahim Khan’s call and agrees to rescue Sohrab.
How does Baba’s relationship with Amir change after moving to America?
He grows closer and proud, showing Soraya Amir’s writing.
Why is Soraya judged more harshly than Amir for her past mistake? What theme does this show?
Because of gender expectations → women are judged more harshly than men.
What does Sohrab’s silence at the end of the novel represent?
His trauma and fear after abuse and loss.
Who tells Amir, “There is a way to be good again”? Why is this line important?
Rahim Khan → it sets Amir on his redemption journey.
Character Comparison
How does Baba’s influence shape Amir’s actions as an adult, even after Baba’s death? Provide at least one example of Amir mirroring or reacting against his father’s values.
- Baba’s bravery (Russian soldier) vs. Amir’s courage (fighting Assef, standing up to General Taheri).
- Baba’s secrecy (Hassan’s parentage) vs. Amir’s honesty with Soraya.
- Baba’s pride/morality → Amir’s need for redemption.
Why does Amir say he feels “at peace” after fighting Assef, even though he is badly injured?
He interprets the beating as punishment for his betrayal of Hassan.
What secret do we learn about Baba that changes the way Amir sees him?
Baba was Hassan’s father, making Amir and Hassan half-brothers.
What career choice of Soraya’s does General Taheri criticize, and what does this reveal about his character?
Teaching; it shows his traditional pride and belief in strict gender roles.
Give one example of Hassan showing loyalty to Amir when they were boys.
He takes the blame when Amir frames him for stealing the watch.
How does Assef symbolize the abuse of power throughout the story?
He uses violence and his position in the Taliban to exploit the weak.
Symbol Analysis
The kite appears in both betrayal and redemption scenes. What does the kite symbolize at the beginning of the novel, and how does its meaning change by the end?
- Early: Kite = victory, Amir’s need for Baba’s approval, but also betrayal of Hassan (running the kite leads to assault).
- End: Kite = healing, hope, connection between Amir and Sohrab, symbol of redemption.
How does Amir show courage when confronting General Taheri about Sohrab?
He tells him, “You will never again call him ‘Hazara boy.’”
How does Baba’s sense of pride and morality shape Amir’s choices as an adult?
Amir learns to face hard truths and take responsibility, following Baba’s example of standing for what’s right.
How does Soraya demonstrate her loyalty and strength when Amir brings Sohrab home?
She is ready to care for and raise Sohrab, even through difficulties.
Why does Sohrab struggle to trust Amir after being rescued?
He fears betrayal and abandonment after so much trauma.
What does the pomegranate tree symbolize in Amir and Hassan’s friendship?
Their childhood bond, later destroyed by betrayal and guilt.
Quote Challenge: Explain what Amir means when he says, “America was a river… Someplace with no ghosts, no memories, and no sins.”
America represents escape and a chance to start over, free from guilt and past mistakes.
In what ways is Baba’s love for Amir shown indirectly instead of through words?
Through actions—working hard to provide, standing up for Amir, paying for his wedding, and moving to the U.S. for his future.
Quote Challenge: Soraya says, “I make one mistake… and I have to have my face rubbed in it for the rest of my life.”What double standard does this reveal?
Men are often forgiven for mistakes, but women face lifelong shame.
Compare Hassan’s loyalty to Amir with Amir’s loyalty to Sohrab. How are they similar or different?
Hassan stayed loyal even when betrayed; Amir learns loyalty later by protecting Sohrab. Amir redeems himself by mirroring Hassan’s loyalty.
How does the kite function as both a symbol of betrayal and redemption in the novel?
It first represents Amir’s betrayal of Hassan (winning the kite but abandoning him), then redemption when Amir runs a kite for Sohrab at the end.