Questions and Answers
Who is Amir?
What is the relationship between Ali and Hassan?
What is Assef known for?
Abusing Amir and Hassan, antagonist who believes in Hitler.
Who is Baba?
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Who is Rahim Khan?
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Who is Sohrab?
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The death of Amir's mom and kite running are central elements of Amir and Hassan's friendship. Amir's first word is ___ and Hassan's is ___.
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Why is Hassan's surgery an ironic turning point in the book?
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What events stand out to Amir during their journey to America?
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Who does Amir meet at the flee market?
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Describe Amir's life in America.
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What does Amir learn upon arriving in Pakistan?
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What does Rahim Khan talk about with Amir?
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Define epiphany.
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Define flashback.
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Define foreshadowing.
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Define imagery.
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Define metaphor.
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Study Notes
Character Overview
- Ali: Servant to Baba, father of Hassan, and a member of the Hazara ethnic group.
- Amir: Narrator and son of Baba, representing the Pashtun ethnic group.
- Assef: Main antagonist who abuses Amir and Hassan; admires Hitler.
- Baba: Amir's father, a wealthy and respected Pashtun man.
- Rahim Khan: Baba's close friend, acts as a father figure to Amir.
- Sanaubar: Hassan's mother, who left after his birth.
- Sohrab: Son of Hassan.
Friendship and Conflict
- Central to Amir and Hassan’s friendship are symbols such as kites and memories of their childhood in Kabul; moments of tension arise due to socio-economic and ethnic divides.
- The death of Amir's mother and their first words mark significant moments in their bond.
- Hassan's cleft lip surgery granted by Baba is ironic as it leads to Hassan losing his joyful demeanor.
Relationship Dynamics
- Amir ultimately betrays Hassan by abandoning him in a moment of crisis, driven by jealousy and a desire for paternal approval.
- This abandonment leads Amir to struggle with guilt and longing for Hassan throughout his life.
Experiences in America
- Amir graduates high school at 20, attends college, marries Soraya, and supports Baba during his illness; Baba dies peacefully.
- Amir faces challenges with infertility alongside Soraya, deepening their bond as they navigate life together.
Journey to Pakistan
- Upon arriving in Pakistan, Amir learns about Hassan's life under Rahim Khan's care and the tragic events that unfolded in Afghanistan.
- Rahim Khan reveals the dire state of Afghanistan under the Taliban, making Amir confront his past and its consequences.
Significant Themes and Literary Devices
- Epiphany: Represents moments of profound realization in Amir's journey.
- Flashback: Provides context to Amir's current situation, revealing formative childhood experiences.
- Foreshadowing: Hints at future events through early childhood dynamics between Amir and Hassan.
- Imagery: Vivid descriptions evoke emotional responses and immerse the reader in the setting.
- Metaphor: Rich comparisons enhance understanding of characters’ inner lives and experiences.
Noteworthy Events
- In dramatic events during the escape to America, Baba shows his courage when defending a woman from a Russian soldier, highlighting his values and Amir’s feelings of inadequacy.
- The relationship with Soraya brings Amir's unresolved issues to the forefront as he grapples with his secrets and past mistakes.
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Description
Study the key characters and concepts from chapters 1 to 16 of 'The Kite Runner'. This quiz features flashcards that include definitions and roles of important figures like Amir, Baba, and Assef. Perfect for reinforcing your understanding of the essential elements in Khaled Hosseini's novel.
