Study questions: The kite runner

Chapter 1-4:

1)Compare and contrast Amir and Hassan, noting their backgrounds, how each boy interacts with his father, and the circumstances surrounding their birth.

They both grew up with out a mother, so they both were educated by their fathers. The fact that Baba and Ali are friends allowed them to be raised almost as brothers. One big difference is that, while Amir is a rich Pashtun, Hassan is a poor Hazara. This difference creates a very special friendship between them.

2)Discuss the origins of the ongoing conflict between Pashtuns and Hazaras. What effect might this have on Amir and Hassan’s relationship?

First of all, Hazaras is a persecuted ethnic group. They are actually opressed by the Pashtuns, Amir's ethnic group. So the relation between them is more like master-servant, just like their fathers.

3)How does Amir feel about Baba? Examine information about Baba, and discuss how Amir and Baba’s differences affect their relationship.

They love each other as a father and son should, but Baba is a little bit disappointed of Amir, because he is different, and he can't stand up for himself. Under my point of view, Amir know this, and that is the reason why he tryes to be like Baba.

4)What does Baba say is the only sin? Explain his theory and whether Amir is able to understand it.

The only sin for Baba is stealing. He thonks that any other crime is a variation of this, such as stealing a man's life.

5)Examine Baba and Ali’s relationship. How is Amir’s relationship similar to theirs? What impact do their ethnic backgrounds have on these relationships?

Because of theur ethnic and cultural differences, the relation they have is a relation between a master, in this case Baba, and a servant, in this case Ali. The fact of being from groups that hate each other, the relation between the boys is similar to the relation of their fathers, Baba and Ali.

6)Discuss the significance of Hassan’s favourite book, the Shahnamah?

Under my point of view, this book is really important for Hassan because when they read, he feels like they are friends, and that he is not a servant. This because Amir is helping Hassan, and they have a good time, just like friends do.

7)Assess the role Rahim Khan plays in Amir’s early life.

He was somehow a father to him, because he supported him in what he liked. For example, when he reads the short story that Amir wrote, and the he menrions in a note to Amir that he have a special talent. Something Baba would never do.