Podcast
Questions and Answers
What quote shows the extent of Hassan's servitude, making the reader uncomfortable?
What quote shows the extent of Hassan's servitude, making the reader uncomfortable?
He poured me a cup and added sugar, blew on it a few times.
What quote shows Hassan idolizes Amir as courageous and brave?
What quote shows Hassan idolizes Amir as courageous and brave?
And before anyone can stop you, you dive into the water and start swimming away.
What quote shows Amir believes Hassan isn't worth apologizing to?
What quote shows Amir believes Hassan isn't worth apologizing to?
Still, I had been mean to Hassan. I almost apologized, then didn't.
What quote shows Amir's pressure to perform?
What quote shows Amir's pressure to perform?
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What quote shows Hassan has a greater understanding of other people and empathy?
What quote shows Hassan has a greater understanding of other people and empathy?
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What quote shows Amir undermining Hassan's intelligence?
What quote shows Amir undermining Hassan's intelligence?
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What quote shows Amir's self-worth is dictated by Baba's approval?
What quote shows Amir's self-worth is dictated by Baba's approval?
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What quote shows Hassan being bullied for his physical appearance?
What quote shows Hassan being bullied for his physical appearance?
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What quote highlights Hassan's dedication to Amir, as he prioritizes Amir over his religion?
What quote highlights Hassan's dedication to Amir, as he prioritizes Amir over his religion?
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What quote shows Amir caring more about the kite than the imminent danger Hassan is in?
What quote shows Amir caring more about the kite than the imminent danger Hassan is in?
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What quote shows Amir's passivity?
What quote shows Amir's passivity?
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What quote shows Amir reinforcing Assef's sentiments (doesn't care enough to intervene)?
What quote shows Amir reinforcing Assef's sentiments (doesn't care enough to intervene)?
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How does the memory of Amir and Hassan worsen the situation?
How does the memory of Amir and Hassan worsen the situation?
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What quote shows the fortune teller realizing Hassan's future is bleak?
What quote shows the fortune teller realizing Hassan's future is bleak?
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What quote presents Assef as unnatural and sinful, as the boys lamely attempt to protest his actions?
What quote presents Assef as unnatural and sinful, as the boys lamely attempt to protest his actions?
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What quote shows Assef abusing religious teachings?
What quote shows Assef abusing religious teachings?
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What quote shows erasure of identity?
What quote shows erasure of identity?
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What does the story of the Eid sacrifice symbolize?
What does the story of the Eid sacrifice symbolize?
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What quote shows Hassan is disposable and expendable?
What quote shows Hassan is disposable and expendable?
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What quote shows the little respect and self-worth Hassan has for himself?
What quote shows the little respect and self-worth Hassan has for himself?
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What quote uses juxtaposition to symbolize the tarnishing of purity and innocence?
What quote uses juxtaposition to symbolize the tarnishing of purity and innocence?
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Study Notes
Themes of Servitude and Power Dynamics
- Hassan’s servitude is starkly highlighted through actions like serving Amir, which evokes discomfort regarding social hierarchies.
- Amir's enjoyment of status contrasts with his treatment of Hassan, indicating a power imbalance in their relationship.
Idolatry and Perception
- Hassan sees Amir as brave and courageous, attributing heroic traits, revealing his admiration and loyalty.
- Amir's belief that Hassan does not merit an apology underscores their unequal friendship, reflecting Amir's internal conflicts on class and loyalty.
Pressure and Expectations
- Baba's watchful presence imposes immense pressure on Amir, causing him to feel inadequate, indicative of parental expectations shaping self-worth.
- This juxtaposition illustrates the struggle for approval and recognition, as Amir's value is closely linked to his father's perceptions.
Empathy and Understanding
- Hassan's deep understanding of Amir’s feelings despite his educational limitations illustrates his emotional intelligence and loyalty.
- Amir underestimates Hassan's intellect, showcasing Amir's own insecurities and biases.
Bullying and Self-Image
- Physical bullying of Hassan due to his appearance highlights societal prejudices and the impact of physicality on self-esteem.
- Amir prioritizing the kite over Hassan’s safety highlights his selfishness, exposing his preoccupation with victory instead of friendship.
Passivity and Inaction
- Amir’s paralysis during a critical moment shows his internal conflict and fear, painting him as passive and indecisive.
- His reluctance to intervene during Assef’s attack emphasizes a theme of complicity in wrongdoing.
Identity and Erasure
- The derogatory reference to Hassan as "just a Hazara" speaks volumes about ethnic discrimination and social divides within Afghan society.
- Cultural identities are stripped away, reducing individuals to their ethnic backgrounds and exacerbating feelings of disposability.
Sacrifice and Loyalty
- The Eid sacrifice story symbolizes the sacrifices Amir and Hassan make for each other’s love, complicating their intertwined fates.
- Hassan’s dedication and willingness to forgo religious obligations for Amir illustrate his deep loyalty and affection.
Symbolism of Innocence
- Juxtaposition in imagery, such as the staining of snow, symbolizes the loss of purity and innocence amidst violent realities.
- This imagery reflects how childhood innocence is marred by harsh societal truths and personal betrayals.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Chapter 7 of 'The Kite Runner' through these flashcards. Explore key quotes that reveal the complex relationship between Amir and Hassan. This quiz will challenge your understanding of the characters and themes present in this critical chapter.