Societal expectations affect personal choices from "summary" of The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
In Kabul, societal expectations weighed heavily on individuals, influencing their personal choices in profound ways. Amir, the protagonist of the story, found himself constantly grappling with the pressure to conform to the rigid norms and values of Afghan society. From a young age, he was acutely aware of the expectations placed upon him as a boy, as well as his role in his relationship with Hassan, his loyal friend and servant. The rigid societal hierarchy in Afghanistan dictated that individuals like Amir, born into privileged Pashtun families, were expected to assert their dominance over those from lower classes, such as Hassan, who belonged to the Hazara ethnic group. This dynamic not only influenced the way in which Amir treated Hassan but also shaped the decisions he made throughout his life. The fear of being perceived as weak or inferior by his peers and family members constantly haunted Amir, leading him to make choices that aligned with societal expectations, rather than his true desires. One of the most pivotal moments in the novel occurs during the kite-fighting tournament, where Amir makes a split-second decision that ultimately alters the course of his life and his relationship with Hassan. Faced with the opportunity to defend Hassan from a group of bullies, Amir succumbs to the pressure of societal expectations and chooses to betray his friend instead. This decision haunts him for years, reflecting the destructive power of societal norms on individual choices.- Amir is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and grapple with the lasting impact of societal expectations on his personal relationships. His journey towards redemption is a testament to the ways in which societal pressures can shape our decisions and ultimately define our sense of self. Through Amir's struggles, Hosseini highlights the complex interplay between personal choice and external influences, shedding light on the enduring power of societal expectations in shaping human behavior.
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