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Symbols in The Kite Runner Explained
May 21, 2025
Symbols in Khaled Hosseini's "The Kite Runner"
Introduction
Overview of symbolism in "The Kite Runner"
Importance of analyzing symbols for deeper understanding of story and characters
Focus on five main symbols in the novel
1. The Monster in the Lake
Context
: Hassan tells Amir about a dream before the kite fighting tournament.
Dream Details
: In the dream, everyone fears a monster in the lake but Amir and Hassan swim out to prove there is none.
Symbolic Interpretations
:
Asaf as the monster (bully who rapes Hassan).
Amir's jealousy could symbolize the monster.
Amir may himself represent the monster.
Cheer from Babar and Rahim Khan may indicate their oblivion to Amir's jealousy.
2. The Pomegranate Tree
Significance
: Represents friendship between Amir and Hassan.
Events
:
Initially a place of bonding, reading, and play.
Post-rape, Amir's resentment leads him to throw pomegranates at Hassan.
Symbolism
:
Transition from brotherly love to bitterness and anger.
Hassan's act of crushing pomegranates symbolizes loyalty and defiance.
3. The Cleft Lip
Significance
: Represents Hassan's social status and separation from Amir.
Events
:
Babar pays for Hassan's surgery, symbolizing his secret love for Hassan.
Later Events
:
Amir receives a split lip, linking him back to Hassan.
Symbolism
:
Amir's scar represents his redemption and connection to Hassan’s legacy.
4. Baba and the Bear
Symbolism
:
Baba is rumored to have wrestled a bear, symbolizing strength but also intimidation.
Duality of Baba
:
Publicly generous (building an orphanage) vs. private shame (infidelity).
Amir's Revelation
:
As Amir is beaten, he dreams of wrestling the bear, reflecting his internal struggle and connection to Baba's dual nature.
5. The Flying of Kites
Overview
: Most prominent symbol, representing beauty, violence, betrayal, and redemption.
Events
:
Amir and Hassan's bond during kite flying; their roles in the tournament.
Amir’s inaction during Hassan’s rape corrupts the symbol of the kite.
Final Acts
:
Amir's eventual kite flying with Sohrab represents redemption.
Kites symbolize hope for Afghan immigrants in California, reflecting a future beyond trauma.
Conclusion
Reflection on the multi-layered symbols in "The Kite Runner"
Encouragement for further exploration and understanding of the text.
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