Identity In The Kite Runner

Have you ever wondered what it's like to have your identity changed, by one simple mistake? In Khaled Hosseini's novel The Kite Runner, identity is a complex theme that is explored in many different ways, including Amir's journey from an Afghani refugee to a successful American citizen. As he goes through these changes , he must learn to deal with conflicts. One of the most prominent examples of this is Amir’s struggle with the guilt he feels for Hassan, and the way his character changes throughout the novel while still struggling with this guilt and anger. The identities of Amir, Hassan, Baba, and Assef were created through situations they faced throughout their lives that shaped who they were as an individual and how they adjusted to their surroundings.

"Hit me back… Hit me back, goddamn you!" (Hosseini, 92) in this part of the book Amir is shamed with his guilt of watching Hassans rape and not doing anything to stop it, he tries to get Hassan to throw pomegranates back at him. Amir does this to get the punishment he craves for what he's done, he believes that this will make them even slightly even, for what he's done. Later on in the book Amir faces his redeeming moment with Assef. “ WHAT'S SO FUNNY? - Assef kept roaring with each blow- what was so funny was that, for the first time since the winter of 1975, I felt at peace.- My body was broken just how badly I wouldn't find out until latest, but I felt healed. Healed at last. I laughed” (Hosseini, 289) This represents Amir finally getting what he feels he deserves for what he had done to Hassan, he has faced his demons and come to terms with his mistake. This helps show Amir's identity and how he has grown and become a stronger, more selfless