ESSAY – The Kite Runner
One of The Kite Runner’s major themes is the search for redemption.
When Rahim Khan speaks of Baba, he says, “…good, real good, was born out your father’s
remorse…And that, I believe, is what true redemption is, Amir jan, when guilt leads to good”
(302).
Author Carson McCullers said that “…humiliation…is the root of sin…The sin of hurting
people’s feelings…[is] the same as murder.” Her statement would lead to the discussion of the
degrees of humiliation as well as intent.
In philosopher Immanuel Kant’s view, the sole feature that gives an action moral worth is not the
outcome that is achieved by the action, but the motive that is behind the action. And the only
motive that can endow an act with moral value, he argues, is one that arises from universal
principles. Kant is famous for his statement of this duty: “Act only according to that [general
rule, principle or truth] by which you can at the same time [expect] that it should become a
universal law.”
PROMPT:
Do you feel that Amir succeeds in redeeming himself? Fully explain your point of view on
this issue. Support your position with reasoning and examples taken from your reading of
the novel, studies, experiences, and/or observations.
You MAY support your opinion of whether or not Amir redeems himself by explaining
whether you agree or disagree with the above statements. However, you DO NOT have to
use all or any of the statements.
1. Your essay should be typed, Times New Roman 12-pt. font, double spaced, MLA format,
etc. and 450-500 words.
2. You do NOT have to follow the Jane Schaffer format (TS, CD, CM, CM.…).
3. Choose your words well; be concise, be insightful, and don’t summarize!
4. No you, our, we, etc. You MAY use I, if it is appropriate.
5. Verb tense for examples in literature is Present tense. Examples do not have to be direct
quotes.
6. Proofread before you turn it in!