Podcast
Questions and Answers
Why do the boys look forward to winter?
Why do the boys look forward to winter?
- They have no school.
- They enjoy the snow.
- They celebrate a holiday.
- They participate in a kite tournament. (correct)
What does it mean to run kites?
What does it mean to run kites?
After a kite is cut, the boys would run after it and claim it.
What unfortunate event happens to Hassan after he gets the blue kite?
What unfortunate event happens to Hassan after he gets the blue kite?
He gets raped by Assef.
What is the purpose of Assef raping Hassan?
What is the purpose of Assef raping Hassan?
How does the relationship between Hassan and Amir change?
How does the relationship between Hassan and Amir change?
Why does Baba threaten to slap Amir?
Why does Baba threaten to slap Amir?
What does Amir throw at Hassan?
What does Amir throw at Hassan?
Why does Amir throw pomegranates at Hassan?
Why does Amir throw pomegranates at Hassan?
Why does Amir want Hassan to fight back?
Why does Amir want Hassan to fight back?
What does Assef get Amir for his birthday?
What does Assef get Amir for his birthday?
Why does Assef choose this gift?
Why does Assef choose this gift?
Why do Amir and Baba decide to leave Kabul?
Why do Amir and Baba decide to leave Kabul?
What illness does Amir suffer from that embarrasses Baba?
What illness does Amir suffer from that embarrasses Baba?
What does Amir receive from Baba after graduating from college?
What does Amir receive from Baba after graduating from college?
Who is General Taheri?
Who is General Taheri?
Who does Amir meet that catches his attention?
Who does Amir meet that catches his attention?
Why does Rahim Khan talk to Amir at the end of his party?
Why does Rahim Khan talk to Amir at the end of his party?
What decision do Ali and Baba make?
What decision do Ali and Baba make?
How does Baba feel about Hassan and Ali leaving?
How does Baba feel about Hassan and Ali leaving?
Did Hassan know that Amir watched him get raped?
Did Hassan know that Amir watched him get raped?
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Study Notes
Kite Tournament and Running Kites
- Boys eagerly anticipate winter for the kite tournament, a significant event in their culture.
- "Running kites" refers to the act of chasing after kites that have been cut, showcasing excitement and competition.
Traumatic Events and Their Impact
- Hassan's experience after winning the blue kite culminates in a tragic incident where he is raped by Assef, a profound betrayal of friendship.
- Assef's act represents a demonstration of power and control over Hassan, marking a dark shift in their relationship.
Shifts in Relationships
- The bond between Amir and Hassan deteriorates post-trauma as Amir begins to distance himself, leading to a breakdown in communication and friendship.
- Amir’s actions become increasingly hostile, exemplified by throwing pomegranates at Hassan, symbolizing his inner turmoil and guilt.
Symbolism and Ideology
- Assef gifts Amir a biography of Hitler for his birthday, a reflection of his own extremist beliefs and an assertion of dominance.
- This gift underscores the themes of power and manipulation present in their interactions.
Escape and Change
- Amir and Baba decide to flee Kabul due to the Russian occupation, highlighting the urgency and danger of their situation.
- Amir's embarrassment over his car sickness creates tension in his relationship with Baba, representing deeper feelings of inadequacy.
New Beginnings and Relationships
- Post-college, Baba gifts Amir an old model Ford, signifying a rite of passage and Baba’s pride despite prior tensions.
- Amir's interest in Soraya Taheri marks a new chapter in his life, introducing themes of love and acceptance.
Emotional Connections
- Rahim Khan’s conversation with Amir at the party serves as a catalyst for Amir to confront his feelings and past experiences.
- The decision made by Ali and Baba to leave Baba's house evokes deep sadness in Baba, emphasizing the emotional bonds within their social circle.
Awareness and Accountability
- Hassan’s awareness of Amir's failure to intervene during the assault adds complexity to their relationship, creating a mix of guilt and blame that persists.
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