Allusions In The Kite Runner

Although Passing by Nella Larson talks about identity the book has a monotonous plot while The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini opens the 9th grader’s perspective on the outside world in more ways that make an impression on the reader, especially with his focus on powerful themes, internal and external conflicts, and the rich use of symbols and allusions. Additionally, The Kite Runner is still relevant in 2023 given the Taliban commits acts of atrocities, furthermore, the Kite Runner also gives students an appreciation for how they are living while The Passing isn't as provocative as The Kite Runner. This selection is arguably better for teenagers to read in the 9th grade.

The Kite Runner's provocative themes including redemption,

Hosseini uses the allusion to a sacrificial lamb when Assef assaults Hassan in the alleyway. Amir sees this attack but decides to do nothing but run away Amir thinks to himself “ He had the eyes of a lamb” referring to the bible when the prophet Abraham was going to sacrifice his son and his son accepted his fate, but god tells him right before he sacrifices the child to sacrifice a lamb. Hassan is seen as a sacrificial lamb because it is almost like he is being sacrificed for Amir. This allusion is used again when Hassan is framed for theft. Amir tells his father a lie about Hassan stealing but when Hassan is confronted about it, he looks at Amir and plays along with the lie, because Hassan would do anything for Amir just like how Abraham would do anything for God. Another allusion is used during this scene and it is the allusion to “blood money” Amir frames Hasan for the theft of his birthday money. This relates to when Judas Iscariot betrays Jesus for 30 pieces of silver and Jesus was sent to his death, just like how Amir and Hassan's relationship died after Amir betrayed Hassan. Hoiseeni also utilizes the symbol of the pomegranate tree, which symbolizes Amir and Hassan's relationship. During Amir and Hassan's childhood, they carve “Amir and Hassan the sultans of Kabul”(27). When Amir made the trip to Afghanistan he went to see the pomegranate tree again and the tree was still standing. This shows although many things were going on the tree survived just like Amir and Hassan's