Racism in the kite runner. Discrimination In The Kite Runner 2022-10-28

Racism is a prevalent theme in Khaled Hosseini's novel The Kite Runner. The novel is set in Afghanistan and follows the story of Amir, a wealthy Pashtun boy, and Hassan, a Hazara servant. The two boys grow up in the same household and are close friends, but their relationship is strained by the societal prejudices and discrimination that exist between their respective ethnicities.

Pashtuns, like Amir, are considered to be the dominant ethnic group in Afghanistan and hold a higher social status than Hazaras, like Hassan. Hazaras are often discriminated against and marginalized by Pashtuns and other dominant groups in Afghanistan. This is evident in the way that Hassan is treated by Amir's father and other Pashtun characters in the novel. Hassan is constantly belittled and mistreated, and is even referred to as a "flat-nosed" servant.

The theme of racism is further explored through the character of Assef, a wealthy Pashtun boy who becomes Amir's rival. Assef is a fanatic nationalist and is deeply prejudiced against Hazaras, going so far as to commit acts of violence against them. He represents the worst of the Pashtun chauvinism and bigotry that exists in Afghanistan.

Despite the racism and discrimination that Hassan faces, he remains a loyal and loving friend to Amir. Hassan is a model of selflessness and compassion, even sacrificing his own safety and well-being for Amir's sake. This serves as a powerful contrast to the selfish and cruel behavior of characters like Assef, highlighting the destructive nature of racism.

The Kite Runner ultimately serves as a poignant reminder of the harm that racism can cause and the importance of standing up against it. It encourages readers to consider their own biases and to strive for a more inclusive and compassionate society. So, the theme of racism plays a very significant role in the novel and serves as a reminder of the dangers of prejudice and discrimination.