Kite Runner Literary Analysis
Your task is to choose one of the following prompts and analyze (break down, dig deeper) the novel based upon that
theme in 2-3 typed pages. You will be graded on the 6 trait rubric – content, organization, conventions, word choice,
voice, sentence fluency.
Requirements
2-3 pages, typed, 11 pt Calibri Font (word 2007 default), 1 inch margins
At least 5 specific pieces of evidence quoted from the novel
A clear thesis statement within your introduction paragraph
One of the prompts below
Title
Prompts
1. Even though countless events occur in the novel, the title refers to kite fighting and kite running.
What do these activities represent in the novel and why are they so important? How would the
story change if Kite Running wasn’t so prevalent?
2. Make a list of instances in the novel where someone is forgiven. What constitutes true forgiveness?
Why is forgiveness so important? You may want to consider moments between Hassan and Amir,
Baba and Hassan, Hassan and Sanaubar, Amir and Sohrab, General Taheri and Soraya, and Amir
and himself.
3. Examine the concept of circularity in the novel. What important cycles exist in the characters' lives
and histories? How is circularity connected to redemption? Use specific examples from the text to
support your answer.
4. Explore the way in which courage is portrayed in the novel. What constitutes true bravery? What
are the key moments when characters are brave and who is the bravest character, if any? Use
specific examples from the text to support your argument.
5. Think about acts of violence in the novel individually and as a whole. Why is violence so essential
to the story? Could the story occur without so much violence? Using your answer from the previous
question, explain what you think Hosseini is using violence to say. You may want to consider:
Hassan's rape, Sohrab's rape, the stonings at Ghazi Stadium, Assef and Amir's fight, Sohrab's
suicide attempt, the story of Kamal and his father, Hassan and Farzana's murders, Sanaubar's
appearance at the house, and the activity of kite fighting.
6. Redemption is a theme seen throughout the novel. Think about what characters are trying to
redeem their actions. Do they ever really reach redemption for their actions? You may want to
consider Baba, Amir, and Rahim Khan.
7. Hosseini uses a variety of quotes numerous times in the novel. Why does he use these quotes and
how do these particular quotes drive the plot? Analyze his use of repetition.
**If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask me.
Example citation:
“There is a way to be good again” (2).