The HeroS Journey Of Amir In The Kite Runner A Novel By Khaled Hosseini

Jan 6, 2024 kite runner khaled hosseini Social science Journalism & Communication

The HeroS Journey Of Amir In The Kite Runner A Novel By Khaled Hosseini


Amir, the central character in Khaled Hosseini’s novel “The Kite Runner,” embarks on a transformative hero’s journey that takes him through a series of trials, challenges, and self-discovery. The hero’s journey, as described by Joseph Campbell, involves a protagonist who undergoes a profound transformation, often involving self-realization and personal growth. Amir’s journey in the novel can be analyzed through the lens of this classic narrative structure.

  1. The Call to Adventure: Amir’s hero’s journey begins with a call to adventure that arises when he learns about a kite-fighting tournament in Kabul. The tournament presents an opportunity for Amir to prove himself to his father, Baba, and to gain his approval and love. It is also a chance for Amir to compete and demonstrate his courage.

  2. Refusal of the Call: Amir initially refuses the call in several ways. He is haunted by his own feelings of inadequacy and guilt over betraying his friend Hassan. These feelings make him hesitant to face the challenges of the tournament and his past.

  3. Crossing the Threshold: Amir’s crossing of the threshold occurs when he makes the fateful decision not to help Hassan when he is in a dire situation. This choice sets in motion a chain of events that will shape the rest of his life. It marks a point of no return in his journey.

  4. Trials and Tribulations: Throughout the novel, Amir faces a series of trials and tribulations. His guilt and shame about his actions haunt him and lead to a strained relationship with his father. His journey takes him from Kabul to America, where he continues to struggle with his past. He also has to return to Afghanistan to face the challenges of the war-torn country and find redemption.

  5. Meeting with the Mentor: Amir’s mentor figure is Rahim Khan, Baba’s close friend. Rahim encourages Amir to return to Kabul to rescue Hassan’s son, Sohrab. He provides guidance, support, and insight that help Amir on his path to redemption.

  6. Atonement with the Father: Amir’s ultimate atonement with his father, Baba, occurs after Baba’s death. Amir discovers a letter from Rahim Khan that reveals a shocking family secret, reshaping his understanding of his father’s actions. This moment of revelation allows Amir to reconcile with his father’s memory and legacy.

  7. The Ordeal: Amir’s ordeal is returning to Kabul and confronting the Taliban-controlled, war-torn city. He faces danger and witnesses the suffering of the Afghan people, including Sohrab, who has been victimized by the brutal regime.

  8. The Ultimate Boon: The ultimate boon in Amir’s journey is his self-redemption through rescuing Sohrab. By doing so, he finally takes responsibility for his past sins, and in the process, he finds a way to make amends for his betrayal of Hassan. This act brings Amir a sense of closure and inner peace.

  9. The Road Back: The road back for Amir is leaving Afghanistan with Sohrab and returning to America. He has achieved his goal of saving Hassan’s son, and he is transformed by his journey.

  10. The Return: In the return phase of the hero’s journey, Amir returns to America with Sohrab. The novel ends with the possibility of a new beginning, as Amir is determined to give Sohrab a better life, symbolizing his own redemption and personal growth.

Amir’s hero’s journey in “The Kite Runner” is a poignant exploration of themes such as guilt, redemption, the complexities of family relationships, and the enduring impact of one’s actions. Through his journey, Amir evolves from a deeply flawed and selfish character into a more compassionate, self-aware individual who has faced his demons and found a path to healing and redemption.