Problem Statement:
The Kite Runner is a novel that explores the complexities of friendship, betrayal, and redemption through the story of two boys growing up in Afghanistan. The friendship between Amir and Hassan is central to the plot, as it is both a source of comfort and conflict for the characters. The purpose of this study is to examine how readers view the friendship between Amir and Hassan.
Objectives:
- To analyze how the friendship between Amir and Hassan is portrayed in The Kite Runner.
- To explore how cultural and societal factors influence readers’ views on their friendship.
- To identify common themes or opinions among readers regarding the friendship.
- To provide insights into how literature can facilitate cross-cultural understanding.
Preliminary Literature Review:
The relationship between Amir and Hassan has been analyzed extensively in academic literature, with many scholars focusing on its symbolic significance in representing larger societal issues such as class, ethnicity, and power dynamics (Sedgewick, 2010). Others have examined how cultural norms shape perceptions of male friendships in Afghan society (Kakar, 2007).
There are also numerous discussions among readers about their views on the friendship. Some argue that it is a true representation of unconditional love and loyalty, while others criticize Amir’s actions towards Hassan as betraying their bond (Nasrullah & Bano, 2015).
References:
Kakar, M. H. (2007). Male-male intimacy in Afghanistan: Cultural norms and social expectations. Journal of Men’s Studies, 15(3), 257-269.
Nasrullah, R., & Bano, S. (2015). Betrayal and redemption: A study of The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini from psychoanalytic perspective. International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education (IJHSSE), 2(9), 64-72.
Sedgewick, E. K. (2010). The Kite Runner and the problem of literary trauma. Modern Language Quarterly, 71(4), 523-545.