Characterisation of Haroon and Charlie “The Buddha of Suburbia” Hanif Kureishi
Haroon Amir
Outer appearance Indian man Small Elegant and handsome Broad and strong
Social background Originally from India, Bombay Speaks English and his mother language (Hindi) Grew up in Bombay Immigrated to England in 1950 with his friend Anwar Lives in the South London Suburbs Works as a doctor
Behaviour Typical Indian – spiritual; meditation; men superior to woman; lives from the guts, not from the head Different – standing apart from others Proud – background, achievements, son Naïve – concerning his sons life Loyal/tolerant – not class-orientated Shameless – towards other people
Behaviour Confident – with Eva Childish – playing stupid games Dependent/dominated – not able to take care of himself Faithful – towards his son Ashamed –because of his decision Unhappy – failure in love selfish – leaving his family happy – with Eva unhappy/unconfident – after everything has changed so much
Charlie Kay
Structure Outer appearance Character General information about him
Outer appearance Very handsome – Straight nose – Beautiful lips – Shoulder-length hair – Hair colour changes over time Stylish Tall Thin
Character Very much focussed on his success Self-confident Charismatic Extroverted Confused / Lost
General information 18 years old Goes to Karim’s school (Sixth form) Front singer of “Mustn’t Grumble” Moves to New York in order to succeed with his new band Sexual experiences with men and women