Kite Runner Redemption

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini is a moving novel which chronicles the treachery and atonement of its protagonist, Amir. Amir travels to San Francisco, California away from Afghanistan only to be brought back by his web of guilt of shame. Hosseini illustrates the theme of sins and redemption through Amir’s experiences in dealing with Hassan’s rape, the Taliban overtaking, and Amir’s life with Sohrab. In his early years, Amir betrays Hassan by watching him be raped by Assef. Amir remembers the precise moment when the rape occurred tried to escape the guilt for years. What called him back was his past of unatoned sins. Hosseini writes, “That was a long time ago, but it’s wrong what they say about the past, I’ve learned about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out. Looking back now, I realize I have been peeking into that deserted alley for the last twenty-six years.” (Hosseini 1). Afraid of the outcome with Assef, it would be defer Amir from

Sohrab attempted suicide due to the hardships of Amir trying to adopt him and bring him to the United States. Becoming a part of a blended background, Sohrab had many people lose hope in him. During Sawl-e-Naw, Afghan New Years, there was a kite running contest; and Amir was able to catch a glimpse of Sohrab’s smile. Hosseini writes, “’For you, a thousand times over.’ I heard myself say.” (Hosseini 365). This quote means Amir is willing to anything to see Sohrab’s smile again. The smile does not mean much, but it could lead to something more. Through Amir’s experiences in dealing with Hassan’s rape, the Taliban overtaking Afghanistan, and Amir’s life with Sohrab, Hosseini was able to exemplify the theme of sins and redemption. Amir’s importance in the novel helped in the development of the plot. The theme of sins and redemption in The Kite Runner conveyed Hosseini’s intent to prove that no matter what sin you commit, there is a way to be good