The Theme Of Redemption In The Kite Runner

Redemption, the action of saving or being saved from sin, error, or evil. In the novel The Kite Runner written by Khaled Hosseini, the theme of redemption is evident throughout the book. Hosseini himself explained redemption in his own way, stating “true redemption is… when guilt leads to good”, and this “fiction is inspired by his memories of growing up in pre-Soviet-controlled Afghanistan and Iran, and of the people who influenced him as a child.” (768 Gale) The theme is shown through each and every character, whether it be Amir the protagonist or Sanaubar, the mother of Hassan. There is even redemption in the title of the novel because when Hassan runs to retrieve the losing kite, he is raped by Assef. While Hassan, “the kite runner”, is being sexually violated, Amir observes without saying a word. This sets up redemption for Amir, who wants to be free of that sin. The theme of redemption is evident at the commencement of The Kite Runner and weaves its way through the character’s betrayals of each other and their efforts at redemption.

Starting with a character who is not mentioned much in the book, Sanaubar is substantial to the theme of redemption. In order for Sanaubar to be redeemed she had to give her son, Hassan, a chance to meet and get to know his own mother. She has to make amends for her sins by becoming part of Hassan and his family’s life. When she finally reached her proper state of mind after all those years of prostitution, she spent the rest of her