The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini HASSAN Zoe Alexander

Who is Hassan? Hassan is: Amir’s best friend and half brother Baba’s servant A loyal friend to Amir Brave, selfless and intelligent A poor Hazara A victim of racism Not present in a significant proportion of the novel

Hassan’s Role in the Story Hassan learns that his duty in life is to sacrifice himself for others Hassan comes across as a representation of innocence Hassan’s innocence gives Amir no justifiable reason to betray his friend

Hassan’s Relationship with Amir Hassan and Amir are: Practically brothers Best friends

Hassan’s Relationship Baba and Ali Hassan has close relationships with both men Hassan feels that he can tell Ali anything On his birthday, Hassan always receives a big, expensive present from Baba for a seemingly unknown reason Baba forgives Hassan automatically

Hassan’s Impact on the Story Hassan has changed Amir for ever Hassan was someone Amir could hide behind when they were younger At the end of the story Amir feels the need to pay Hassan back for the kindness

Key Quotations for Hassan “Amir agha and I are friends,” Hassan said. – Hassan (Chapter 7)   “For you a thousand times over!” he said. Then he smiled his Hassan smile and disappeared around the corner. The next time I saw him smile like that was twenty-six years later, in a faded Polaroid photograph. – Amir and Hassan (Chapter 7) He knew I’d seen everything in that alley, that I’d stood there and done nothing. He knew I had betrayed him and yet he was rescuing me once again, maybe for the last time. – Amir (Chapter 9)