Abstract: By analyzing Amir and his father’s redemption and the condition of the nation, this study aims to probe into the overt and underlying themes of Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner. After a deep discussion about the root of the sin, the process of redemption and the significance of redemption, this paper argues that only when the sinner atones for the sin entirely, can the soul be liberated completely and be a man of flesh and blood. Dissecting the theme of redemption, this study further analyzes the underlying theme which Hosseini presents in the story. It points out that the current problems existing in Afghanistan result from the hierarchy and ethnic discrimination. Thus the way the humans redeem them from sin is just the right way for Afghans to save their country. The paper concludes that only if the Afghans awaken and struggle for class equality can they save the country in pain and be the masters of their own destiny. The kite of their destiny will be controlled in their hands rather than in others’.

Key words: The Kite Runner; redemption; atone; sin; Afghanistan

CONTENTS

Abstract

摘要

1.Introduction.1

  1.1 Khaled Hosseini and The Kite Runner 

  1.2 Literature Review

2. The Overt Theme of the Novel——Redemption of Amir and Father2

  2.1 Amir’s Redemption

2.1.1 Being Guilt Ridden about the Sin Committed in the Childhood

2.1.2 On the Way to be Good Again

2.2 Father’s Redemption4

2.2.1 Hiding the Sin under a Just Image

2.2.2 Atoning for the Sin by Doing Good Deeds

2.3 Significance of Redemption to Amir and Father

3. Underlying Theme of the Novel8

3.1 Current Problems of Afghanistan

3.2 The Redemption of Nation

4. Conclusion10

Bibliography.11

Acknowledgements..12