Sharon,
I completely agree that Hassan’s
picking up on Amir’s mockery is quite telling of Hassan’s character. He is as
genuine and altruistic as I have seen exist in a story in a long time. It
sickened me to read of Amir’s attempted control and tarnishing of his
“friend’s” brain. Although in no way do I agree with it, I understand
Hosseini’s inclusion of the class difference between Amir and Hassan and his
point of repeating it throughout the story. It takes the reader a level deeper
in comprehending the citizen dynamics in Afghanistan at this time.
I recall
the rape from my previous read-through of the story, although I have not reached
that point yet this time. Assef’s actions are completely savage, brutal, and
repulsive. While previously, I had commented that Amir’s jealousy and mean
comments could be attributed to young age, there is no justification for why he
did not go save his friend from intense violence. I really like your comparison between Hassan’s
selflessness and Amir’s selfishness. Hassan choosing to remain silent on the events
that took place is the epitome of altruism, in my opinion. Even after such a
traumatic experience, Hassan continues to support his so called friend so to
not get him punished.
Amir makes a big mistake in
sacrificing his friendship with Hassan for superficial, and most likely
short-lasting, recognition from Baba for winning a childish competition.
Ryan Pearson
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