THE THEME OF WAR IN KHALED HOSSEINI’S THE KITE RUNNER

Abstract

Khaled Hosseini's The Kite Runner employs the theme of war as both a backdrop and a central subject to reflect the historical upheavals in Afghanistan, from the Soviet invasion to the Taliban's rule. Through the fates of characters like Amir, Hassan, and Sohrab, the novel condemns the brutality of war, exposing not only the physical but also the psychological losses, particularly the enduring scars that span generations. Hosseini emphasizes the significance of love and compassion in overcoming the pain left by war. Amir’s journey of redemption is not only a confrontation with his past but also a message of renewal and hope. Symbols such as kites and the city of Kabul represent both loss and the aspiration for peace and rebirth. By vividly portraying Afghanistan's culture and its people, the novel transcends personal narratives to deliver a global plea for the values of peace and humanity.