1. The Kite Runner
Ch 1-2 Analysis

2. Symbolism and Diction
According to the scholar Joseph Campbell, winter symbolizes “cold, despair, loneliness, emptiness.” For the hero this season symbolizes his or her literal or symbolic death. This is a time of introversion and contemplation. List all the key adjectives from the first paragraph of Chapter One.
What does the symbolism of winter and Amir’s diction suggest about the event the narrator is recalling from his past?

3. Personification and Diction
There are many examples of figurative language in the novel. When an author uses figurative language, the diction can be just as important. Examine this passage:
“That was a long time ago, but it’s wrong what they say about the past, I’ve learned, about how you can bury it. Because the past claws its way out.”
Which inanimate object is being personified in this passage and how is this figurative device used to show how the narrator feels about his past? How does diction enhance the meaning of Amir’s feelings?

4. Symbolism and Diction
Paragraph two references another season. According to scholar Joseph Campbell, summer symbolizes “warmth, joviality, joy, ease, fullness.” For the hero this season symbolizes the peak of his or her power. This is a time to be outwardly expressive.
By setting the scene at the end of summer, what is the author suggesting about the main character’s current situation compared to the Winter of 1975?

5. Powerful Words
“I became what I am today at the age of twelve, on a frigid overcast day in the winter of 1975.” (1)
“Looking back on it now, I think the foundation for what happened in the winter of 1975 – and all that followed – was already laid in those first words.” (11)
What do you think Amir means by the last statement in Chapter 2? Consider both Amir’s and Hassan’s first word.

6. Universal Theme
There are many subjects in this novel. One subject that is frequently explored is the importance of family, and specifically brotherhood. Although Hassan and Ali are Baba’s servants, there is obviously a close relationship between Amir and Hassan. How do Hassan and Amir act like brothers? What message is the author trying to convey through their close relationship?

7. Symbolism and Objects
Mirrors symbolize “imagination, consciousness, self- contemplation, reflection of the universe, mythic door-soul frees itself by ‘passing’ to the other side.” A distorted image or mirror used in a destructive way symbolizes “self-deception.” Read the first two paragraphs of chapter two and examine how the mirror is used in the passage.
Based on the symbolism of the mirror and the context it is used, what is being inferred about Amir and Hassan’s relationship?

8. Chapter 3 Assignment
Find 3 passages that reflect Amir’s attempts to receive his father’s approval.
Find passages that characterize Baba as follows:
Controlling
A great presence
Powerful
Turn in your work then read ch 7-10 when finished.