Thematic Analysis: You will choose one or two themes that are found within the novel and discuss what you think the author is saying through these themes. Here are some possible themes: Guilt, Redemption, Culture/cultural differences, Family (father/son relationship), Friendship, Social Class, and Secrets/effects of secrets. Ultimately, you are examining how the theme is being used and for what purpose. A sample thesis would be: “Due to Amir’s absence of familial love, he is unable to fully understand and accept the true friendship of Hassan, thereby causing him to further fracture his family by betraying his own brother.” This is a combination of the themes of family and friendship. Symbolic Analysis: Choose one or more symbols from the novel and discuss how they are being used and for what purpose. There are various symbols to utilize, such as the kite, pomegranates, the slingshot, Amir’s writing/books, Baba’s house, etc. First consider what the symbol represents and then how the author is using the symbol.
Ethical Analysis: One of the central questions of the novel is whether or not the reader believes Amir has “redeemed” himself at the close of the novel. First, consider his “crimes” against Hassan and others. Then discuss his redeeming actions, and finally, determine whether you think he has redeemed himself at the end (the thesis should reveal your opinion on this issue). Must be 1000-1300 words in length