Symbolism The Kite Runner There is a lot

Symbolism

The Kite Runner • There is a lot of symbolism used in the book, • • Kites The Pomegranate trees Hare lip Sacrificial lamb

Kites-freedom • At the start of the book Amir sees the kite as a symbol of freedom. As he is now in America, and in a way free from his past. • However he sees the kites as a link to his childhood, and to Hassan. • They could fly kites before the Taliban, when Kabul was free.

Kites-violence • Kite fighting is violent by nature. • Kite fighting represents the conflicts that rage Afghanistan throughout the book. • The kite causes Hassan to get raped, as he would not give it to Assef.

The Pomegranate tree • The pomegranate tree represents the sprit of Afghanistan. • During the boys childhood the tress is full of life, standing tall and fruitful, just like Afghanistan. • When Amir returns to Afghanistan from America the tree is dead, just like the country which has no prospects and people feel threatened and are not allowed to live normal lifes.

Hare lip • Hassan is left with a scar after having an operation on his hare lip. • Once the wound had healed Hassan was able to smile properly, however Amir never saw him smile after that terrible day. • After Amir goes back and makes things right he is left with the same scar.

Sacrificial Lamb • The Sacrificial Lamb is an Afghan tradition, to ask forgiveness from God. • Hassan gets “the look of the lamb” during Assef’s attack • Hassan is sacrificing himself for Amir and is prepared to give everything for him, just like the lamb gives its life.