The Kite Runner Characters
The main characters in The Kite Runner are Amir, Baba, Hassan, Assef, and Soraya.
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Amir is the narrator and protagonist. As a child, he struggled to win his father’s love and felt jealous of Hassan’s connection to Baba.
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Baba is a respected member of the Afghan community who struggles to adapt to life in the US.
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Hassan is a servant at Baba’s house and Amir’s childhood friend. He is fiercely loyal to Amir despite Amir’s betrayal.
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Assef is a bully with fascistic beliefs. He becomes a high-ranking official in the Taliban.
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Soraya is Amir's wife. Her past and rebellious attitude alienate her from the community.
Characters
Amir
Amir is the protagonist and narrator of The Kite Runner. He grows up in a “sprawling white mansion” in the Afghan capital of Kabul, with his father, Baba. Amir loves Baba deeply, but Baba rarely shows him affection. Living in close quarters with Amir and Baba are Ali and his son Hassan, who are their servants and live in a mud shack on the mansion’s grounds.
Despite their differences, Amir and Hassan are playmates, but because Amir is a Pashtun and Hassan is a Hazara, an ethnic minority, Amir is reluctant to publicly call him a “friend.” Racial discrimination is just one of the many elements dividing the pair—and Amir continually reinforces these divisions by letting Hassan claim responsibility for his, Amir’s own actions. Much of Amir’s behavior stems from jealousy, and he feels dejection whenever Baba treats Hassan equally. This string of small betrayals culminates in the ultimate betrayal, when Amir witnesses Hassan’s rape by Assef but does nothing, and when Amir then frames Hassan as a thief. Amir admits that his refusal to intervene during the rape stemmed from his desire for the blue kite Hassan held, which was his “key to Baba’s heart.”
Amir’s journey is therefore one of redemption and personal growth. As an adult, he is haunted by the choice he made as a boy. He atones first through his personal suffering and guilty conscience and then by returning to Afghanistan to rescue and ultimately adopt Sohrab. When Assef beats him with his brass knuckles in their final confrontation, Amir laughs through his physical agony because, in gaining the courage to face Assef’s wrath, his feelings of fear and inertia are transformed into a selflessness that he had never believed himself capable of.
Hassan
Hassan and his father, Ali, are Amir and Baba’s Hazara servants. As Amir learns later on, Hassan is also Baba’s illegitimate son and Amir’s half-brother. Hassan epitomizes goodness, acting as a loyal servant to Baba and Amir and enduring the humiliation that Amir frequently puts him through, such as pelting him with pomegranates in a bid to force him to react. Although Amir is reluctant to call Hassan a friend, Hassan remains constant in his fidelity to Amir, responding to Amir’s requests with the words “For you, a thousand times over.”
Hassan’s innocence acts in contrast to Amir’s duplicity. Amir realizes that Hassan is entirely honest and means “everything he says,” but this becomes a character flaw, as it means that he believes “everyone else does too.” Consequently, Hassan has learned to behave in a subservient manner and is reluctant to defend himself against Amir.
Hassan’s rape by Assef is the defining moment of The Kite Runner and situates Hassan as the sacrificial lamb. Amir describes how he accepts the assault without protest, bearing “the look of the lamb” in his eyes. He later considers Hassan as “the lamb [he] had to slay” to win Baba’s heart. The lamb is a traditional symbol of sacrifice in Islam, and the slaughtering of lambs is part of the celebration of Eid al-Adha, intended to honor Abraham’s willingness to slay his son Ishmael at God’s request. This association with goodness and sacrifice continues when Hassan claims responsibility for stealing from Amir, even though he is innocent. Hassan’s fidelity endures throughout the years, with him telling his son, Sohrab, that Amir was “the best friend he ever had.”
Baba
Baba, Amir’s father, has a strong moral compass, and it is lack of faith in Amir’s ability to do the right thing that causes much of the friction in their relationship. When Amir is just a boy, Baba warns him of the dangers of using religious doctrine to justify all manner of deeds and the importance of not conflating Islam and authentic morality.
Baba’s lesson that “theft” is the only true sin and that “When you tell a lie you steal someone’s right to the truth” no doubt compounds Amir’s guilt, as Amir has “stolen the truth” from Baba, Ali, and Rahim Khan by framing Hassan for stealing.
By being “split between two halves,” however, Baba can never truly love either of his sons in the way they deserve. Baba can spend time with Hassan, but because Hassan is a servant and a Hazara, he cannot give him the education or privileged upbringing that Amir enjoys. Instead, he can only provide him with small acts of kindness, such as arranging the surgery to repair his cleft palate. Conversely, he sees his “legitimate half,” Amir, as so distinct from himself that he can barely recognize him as his own son.
Baba carries the guilt of his infidelity for most of his life and only begins to feel its weight lift when he and Amir settle in California. But once there, Baba experiences another kind of grief: mourning for his beloved homeland and former life. As he adjusts to life in the US, Baba thinks of Hassan less, and his relationship with Amir improves. Having seen Amir find love and begin to achieve success, Baba approaches the end of his life with acceptance and peace.
Ali
Ali is Baba and Amir’s servant, Hassan’s father (though not biologically), and a Hazara. In many ways, he mirrors the role of Hassan, fully embracing his role as a servant and remaining loyal Baba and Amir. Although Ali is described as being “like a brother” to Baba, he is forced to live with the reality of Baba’s infidelity and, later, Amir’s devastating betrayal of Hassan.
Sohrab
Sohrab acts as an extension of his deceased father, Hassan, resembling him physically and sharing his talent for shooting slingshots. Like Hassan, Sohrab is sexually abused by Assef and forced to live with the psychological trauma, even after being rescued by Amir. During Amir and Assef’s final confrontation, Sohrab takes out Assef’s eye—a promise that Hassan was unable to fulfill. When Amir adopts Sohrab, not only does he have the opportunity to make recompense for his treatment of Hassan, but it also offers a sense of regeneration, as Sohrab becomes the new “kite runner.”
Assef
Assef epitomizes evil and privilege in The Kite Runner. His rape of Hassan is portrayed as an act of shocking violence upon an innocent. As a teenager, Assef holds bigoted views and expresses a neo-Nazi ideology, with his idol being Adolf Hitler. As an adult, he becomes a Taliban leader. This role allows him to indulge in his desire to ethnically cleanse Afghanistan of Hazaras and continue to sexually exploit children like Sohrab in the name of religious despotism.
Rahim Khan
Rahim Khan is a friend to Baba and Amir. He helps Amir foster his talent for writing by buying him a writing journal and reading his stories. He is also the keeper of both Baba and Amir’s secrets. Years after Amir has left Afghanistan, Rahim Khan calls to ask him to find Sohrab, promising that “there is a way to be good again.” When Amir meets him in Pakistan, Rahim Khan reveals that Hassan was Amir’s half-brother.
Sanaubar
Sanaubar is Hassan’s mother and, for a short time, Ali’s wife. Sanaubar is known for being “dishonorable” and eventually abandons her son and husband to run off with a group of travelers. As an old woman, she turns up to meet Hassan, having had her face disfigured by a knife attack. She and Hassan grow close in spite of all the lost years. Hassan’s young son, Sohrab, becomes “the center of her existence.”
Farid
Farid is the driver who takes Amir to rescue Sohrab. Farid, who is a former mujahedin fighter, is at first distant and judgmental toward Amir for abandoning his homeland of Afghanistan. But as the two spend time together, and Farid learns more about Amir’s plight, the two become close friends.
Expert Q&A
Who is Kamal in "The Kite Runner?"
Kamal is a minor character in Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner, serving as one of Assef's cowardly and obsequious "lieutenants." Alongside Wali, Kamal follows Assef's lead in bullying others, including participating in the attack on Hassan. Kamal's character is emblematic of weakness and subservience, and his tragic end—dying of asphyxiation—adds poignancy to the story, further highlighted by his father's subsequent suicide.
Does Baba, in The Kite Runner, have another name?
Baba's real name is never revealed in The Kite Runner. Amir always refers to him as "Baba," meaning "father" in Arabic, emphasizing Amir's idealized view of him. Baba is also known as "Toophan agha" ("Mr. Hurricane"). The family name might be Akrami, inferred from Amir's mother's name, Sofia Akrami, mentioned in the novel.
Why did Hassan name his son after a Shahnamah character?
Hassan named his son Sohrab after a character from the "Rostam and Sohrab" story in the Shahnamah, a favorite childhood tale he often read with Amir. This epic, featuring themes of familial bonds and tragedy, deeply resonated with Hassan, who identified with the wounded Sohrab. The emotional connection and cherished memories of reading under the pomegranate tree influenced his decision to honor the character by naming his son after him.
Who are Wali and Kamal, and what happens between them, Assef, Amir, and Hassan?
Wali and Kamal are friends of Assef and help him torment Hassan. Both are depicted as followers who admire and fear Assef. Initially, they are shocked when Hassan stands up to Assef. Later, they reluctantly assist in holding Hassan down while Assef rapes him. Ironically, Kamal is later revealed to have been raped himself, leaving him traumatized.
What are the external conflicts between Amir and Hassan in The Kite Runner?
The external conflicts between Amir and Hassan in The Kite Runner include their differing cultural and social statuses, as Amir is a privileged Pashtun and Hassan is a marginalized Hazara. This disparity influences their relationship and societal treatment. Additionally, the character Assef introduces conflict by bullying both boys and later raping Hassan, creating a significant rift. Amir's eventual rescue of Hassan's son, Sohrab, symbolizes the resolution of these conflicts.
Characterize Hassan's physical features and relationships in The Kite Runner.
In The Kite Runner, what symbols represent Rahim Khan?
In The Kite Runner, Rahim Khan is symbolically linked to Amir's journal and the phone call he makes to Amir. The phone call symbolizes Amir's unresolved guilt and his need for atonement, as Rahim Khan prompts Amir to confront his past. The notebook Rahim Khan gifts Amir for his birthday represents his encouragement and support for Amir's writing aspirations, symbolizing Rahim Khan's role in nurturing Amir's identity and dreams.
In The Kite Runner, how does Baba feel about his son?
Baba initially feels disappointed in his son, Amir, due to his literary interests and perceived weaknesses, such as needing protection from Hassan. Baba's pride is momentarily restored when Amir wins a kite flying contest, but it diminishes again following Amir's request to dismiss Hassan. However, their relationship improves after emigrating to America, as Amir matures, graduates, becomes a writer, and marries, allowing them to grow closer before Baba's death.
What are the birth dates (day/month) of Amir and Hassan?
The exact birth dates of Amir and Hassan are not specified in Khaled Hosseini's novel. However, clues suggest that Hassan was born in the winter, as indicated by the gift of surgery for his cleft palate during that season. Amir's birthday is in the summer, as noted when he turns thirteen in 1976, accompanied by a large birthday party. The specific days and months remain unspecified, allowing readers to imagine them.
What are some character weaknesses of young Amir in The Kite Runner?
Young Amir in The Kite Runner displays several character weaknesses, including entitlement due to his privileged background and a lack of genuine friendship with Hassan, whom he often manipulates. He plays pranks without considering consequences and allows Hassan to take the blame for his misdeeds. Amir's cowardice is evident when he fails to defend Hassan during an assault, later feeling guilty but too afraid to confess. He struggles with self-centeredness, guilt, and a lack of courage throughout his youth.
In The Kite Runner, is Baba a hero or a hypocrite?
Baba can be seen as both a hero and a hypocrite. As a hero, he is charitable, builds an orphanage, treats Ali and Hassan like family, and bravely confronts a Russian soldier to protect a woman. He sacrifices his affluent life in Kabul for his son's future in America. However, he is a hypocrite for fathering Hassan and never acknowledging him due to his Hazara ethnicity, despite being close friends with Hassan's supposed father, Ali.
How do the similarities and differences in Amir and Hassan's personalities define their relationship?
Amir and Hassan's relationship is defined by both similarities and differences in their personalities. Despite their different backgrounds—Amir being a privileged Pashtun and Hassan an oppressed Hazara—they share a love for literature and kite fighting. Amir is literate and reads to Hassan, while Hassan excels in athletics. Amir lacks confidence and seeks his father's approval, whereas Hassan is confident and humble. Their complementary traits and shared interests strengthen their bond, making them an effective pair.
Was Amir in "The Kite Runner" a coward, a hero, or neither?
Amir proves himself both a coward and a hero in the novel. While his actions as a child show insecurity and a lack of courage, his adult life shows bravery, compassion, and heroism. This is seen when Amir faces numerous dangers to rescue Hassan's orphaned child and make up for his past mistakes.
Who are Assef's friends in The Kite Runner?
Assef's friends in "The Kite Runner" are Kamal and Wali. They share some of Assef's prejudices against the Hazaras, including Hassan, and assist Assef in chasing Hassan to retrieve a kite. Although hesitant, they reluctantly participate in Assef's assault on Hassan, illustrating their fear and desire to fit in. Later, the narrative reveals that Kamal also suffers a similar fate when trying to escape to Pakistan, suggesting a form of karmic justice.
What is Amir's ethnicity in The Kite Runner?
Amir is a Pashtun, a member of the predominant Sunni ethnic group in Afghanistan. As Pashtuns, Amir and his father Baba enjoy privileges and status that the oppressed Hazara minority do not. The Pashtuns have historically dominated Afghanistan, often discriminating against Hazaras, who are a Shiite minority. Hassan and Ali, who are Hazaras, work as servants for Baba. Despite being Hassan's biological father, Baba does not acknowledge him due to his Hazara ethnicity.
What does this quote reveal about Amir's character and feelings in The Kite Runner?
"Maybe it would be for the best. Lessen his suffering. And mine too. Either way, this much had become clear: One of us had to go."
This quote reveals Amir's deceitful and self-serving nature, as he plans to frame Hassan for theft to rid himself of guilt. Amir justifies this betrayal by convincing himself it will lessen both their sufferings, but his actions are driven by jealousy and a guilty conscience. Unlike his father, Amir lacks strong character traits and prioritizes his own interests, failing to consider the consequences for Hassan and Ali.
What role do minor characters play in The Kite Runner?
Soraya and Amir's Personalities and Father Relationships in "The Kite Runner"
In Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner, Soraya and Amir share complex relationships with their powerful fathers, shaped by their Afghan upbringings. Both fathers, Baba and General Taheri, were influential figures in Afghanistan but struggled to adapt in America. Amir seeks Baba's approval, often feeling inadequate due to his non-masculine traits, while Soraya openly challenges her father's expectations. Both characters carry past secrets—Amir's betrayal of Hassan and Soraya's elopement—yet find redemption and strengthened familial bonds as they mature, particularly through their shared adoption of Sohrab.
The relationship between Baba and Hassan in The Kite Runner, elucidated by past events revealing Baba as Hassan's father
The relationship between Baba and Hassan in The Kite Runner is complex, as it is later revealed that Baba is Hassan's biological father. This secret shapes their interactions, as Baba's guilt and affection for Hassan are evident, yet constrained by societal norms and personal pride.
Deaths of Key Characters in "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini
In The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, key characters who die include Hassan, who is executed by the Taliban, and Baba, who succumbs to cancer. These deaths significantly impact the protagonist, Amir, driving much of his emotional journey and quest for redemption.
Assef's Role and Symbolism in The Kite Runner
Assef in The Kite Runner is a significant antagonist symbolizing cruelty and ethnic hatred. As a teenager, he is depicted as a sociopath, known for his violence, including carrying brass knuckles and idolizing Hitler. Assef's actions, such as bullying and sodomizing Hassan, reflect his belief in Pashtun superiority and ethnic cleansing of Hazaras. Born into privilege, he seamlessly transitions into a Taliban official, continuing his oppressive actions under their regime.
Characterization of Soraya in The Kite Runner
Soraya in The Kite Runner is portrayed as a compassionate, strong, and resilient woman. She overcomes cultural and personal challenges, including a troubled past, to build a loving relationship with Amir. Her character is marked by her kindness and dedication, particularly in her role as a supportive wife and a caring teacher.
Baba's qualities as a father to Amir in The Kite Runner
Baba is a complex father figure to Amir, displaying both strengths and weaknesses. He is authoritative, hardworking, and principled, often emphasizing the importance of honor and integrity. However, Baba struggles to connect emotionally with Amir, sometimes appearing distant and critical, which creates a strained relationship. Despite his flaws, Baba's actions ultimately demonstrate his deep, albeit imperfect, love for his son.
Amir's Transformation in "The Kite Runner"
In Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner, Amir undergoes significant transformation, maturing from a guilt-ridden boy into a responsible, paternal figure. This change is catalyzed by his experiences in America, where he becomes a successful author and marries Soraya, and by returning to Afghanistan to rescue his nephew Sohrab. Amir's journey towards redemption involves confronting his past sins and forgiving himself, ultimately becoming an honorable man as he embraces his new role as Sohrab's guardian.
Analysis of Baba and Ali's character dimensions in The Kite Runner
Baba is portrayed as a complex character, embodying both strength and moral contradictions, while Ali is depicted as humble, loyal, and caring, despite his hardships. Baba's actions reflect his internal struggles and societal expectations, whereas Ali's character highlights themes of loyalty and resilience.
Baba's character analysis in The Kite Runner: tragic hero or admirable figure
Baba in The Kite Runner embodies both a tragic hero and an admirable figure. His tragic flaws include his infidelity and pride, which cause significant pain to those around him. However, he is also admirable for his bravery, generosity, and commitment to principles, particularly his efforts to provide for others and stand up against injustice.
Favorite and most sympathetic characters in The Kite Runner
Many readers find Hassan to be the most sympathetic character in The Kite Runner due to his unwavering loyalty and innocence despite suffering numerous injustices. Additionally, Amir's journey of redemption and growth earns him sympathy as he seeks to make amends for past mistakes.
Amir's Heroism in The Kite Runner
In The Kite Runner, Amir is portrayed as a flawed hero whose journey is driven by a quest for redemption rather than traditional heroism. Initially, Amir fails to defend Hassan from Assef, a cowardly act that haunts him. However, he later returns to Afghanistan, risking his life to rescue Sohrab from Assef, demonstrating courage and selflessness. Amir's actions, including adopting Sohrab and confronting societal prejudices, ultimately reflect his growth into a heroic figure despite his past failings.
How are the characters Rasheed, Luke O'Neill, and General Taheri similar and different?
Rasheed, Luke O'Neill, and General Taheri are all overbearing, sexist, and self-centered. General Taheri, from The Kite Runner, is a conservative traditionalist who values honor and respects his family, making him the most sympathetic. Luke O'Neill, in The Thorn Birds, is mean-spirited and exploits women for personal gain. Rasheed, from A Thousand Splendid Suns, is violent and oppressive, more powerful due to his societal context, unlike the ineffectual Luke.
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