The impact of societal norms on individual choices from "summary" of The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Societal norms have a powerful influence on shaping the decisions individuals make in their lives. In the novel 'The Kite Runner', characters are constantly navigating the expectations placed upon them by society, which in turn impacts their choices. One of the most prominent examples of this is seen in the relationship between Amir and Hassan. Despite their deep bond as friends, societal expectations of class and ethnicity create a divide between them. Amir, as a Pashtun, is expected to maintain a sense of superiority over Hassan, who is Hazara. This societal norm ultimately leads Amir to betray Hassan, as he is more concerned with upholding the status quo than standing up for his friend. Furthermore, the societal norms surrounding masculinity and honor play a significant role in shaping the characters' decisions. When Amir fails to intervene in Hassan's assault, he is haunted by feelings of guilt and shame. His inability to live up to the ideal of masculine bravery leads him to make choices that perpetuate his feelings of inadequacy. Similarly, the character of Baba is also influenced by societal norms in his decision-making. As a wealthy and powerful man, Baba is expected to uphold a certain image of success and respectability. This pressure drives him to make choices that prioritize his reputation over his personal values, ultimately leading to destructive consequences for himself and those around him.- 'The Kite Runner' explores how societal norms can shape and constrain individual choices in profound ways. The characters grapple with the expectations placed upon them by their culture, often leading to internal conflict and moral dilemmas. Ultimately, the novel serves as a powerful reminder of the complex interplay between societal expectations and personal agency in shaping the course of one's life.
