An analysis of a major character -- flat/round, static/dynamic, internal / external conflicts, dominant traits, significant actions, personal relationships...
In the novel The Kite Runner, by Khaled Hosseini the role
of Baba or Amir’s father is not to be underestimated. Baba, a dynamic and round
character, sets the tone of the novel throughout his actions and wit.
Throughout he first several chapters of the story Baba’s major concern about
his son is that he does not have the courage to stand up for himself, therefore
his relationship with his own son is somewhat distant. This internal conflict invokes
fear within Baba because he holds courage and honor in high esteem – “There is
no act more wretched than stealing, Amir” – and as the reader can see Amir is neither
honorable nor courageous in any aspect. Baba worries that his son will not be able to
stand up for himself when he grows older into a man. He displays his concern
and humiliation with Amir in many scenes throughout the first ten chapters. For
example, when they flee from Kabul, Amir becomes sick to his stomach and throws
up in front of all the fleeing passengers, this act of weakness in an 18 year
old “man” embarrasses Baba to the point he even apologizes to the other
passengers for his son’s stomachs uncontrollable nature. Although Baba is
critical of Amir’s lack of valor and integrity, he himself is the epitome of these
moral and social qualities. In chapter ten, the reader see’s the most brave and
kind-hearted act one will ever encounter, in which Baba stands up to the
Russian guard and is willing to sacrifice his life to keep the guard from
raping the woman fleeing with them.
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