Throughout chapters one through five, the development of Amir’s identity is under the constant influence of parental approval. I believe that only until Baba recognizes his son’s potential then will Amir be satisfied with his authenticity. Amir handles his un-acceptance through his relationship with his childhood companion, Hassan. Hassan and Amir’s relationship does not reflect that of friendship but of brotherhood. It mentions earlier that they were fed by the same breasts, symbolizing fraternity. Hassan’s strength of character is captivating in that even through the discrimination of being a Hazar and Shi’a; he continues to treat Baba and Amir with fidelity and devotion, as does his father Ali.
Throughout the chapter’s one through five, I found a quote rehearsed by Baba which forced me into a deep philosophical perspective. “Now, no matter what the mullah teaches, there is only one sin, only one. And that is theft. Every other sin is a variation of theft…” (Hosseini 19). Baba’s quote is reflected in a universal perspective. Its examples; “When you kill a man, you steal a life” (19), reveal a verisimilitude feel, almost a mockery of one’s perception towards the foundation of sins. The truth behind the statement becomes powerful enough to reflect on and lead to further analysis and interpretation.
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