The Kite Runner - Hassan

Hassan

'The Kite Runner' title, Hassan is arguably the most significant character on the novel. What Hassan represents to Amir and to other characters in the novel, are the crucial driving forced behind the actions of the characters. Hassan appears as a presence, looming over the narrative, rather than play a central character.

Chapter Two - Amir's description of Hassan:
"almost perfectly round face, a face like a Chinese doll, chiselled from hardwood".
"cleft lip [...] where the Chinese doll maker's instrument may have slipped, or perhaps he had simply grown tired and careless".
"flat, broad nose and slanting, narrow eyes"
"eyes that looked, depending on the light, gold, green, even sapphire".
"bamboo"
His physical description here suggests that Amir has spent a lot of time with Hassan, that he knows all of his features in such detail, suggesting that they were very close friends.
The description of a "Chinese doll" suggests he has feminine features. However, it also suggests that his face is perfectly crafted, but man-made and manufactured.
The relation of bamboo to Hassan's physical description also links to the kite making, suggesting that Hassan is a constant reminder of Kabul, especially with the significance of the kite flying.

We get further insight into his character, when Amir tell him to throw pomegranates at him, but refuses, showing that as a child, he is used to carrying burdens and a willingness to take what ever is forced upon him. This is similar to when Hassan and Amir converse about eating dirt, when Hassan says "would you ever ask me to do such a thing, Amir agha?" (page 48).

Throughout the novel, we only hear Hassan's voice directly, once, through the letter. Letters are commonly used to allow other characters to have a voice. Through the use of the letter, Hassan speaks directly, without the filter of Amir's perceptions. The letter opens and closes with religious invocations. Amir has mentioned Hassan's beliefs only slightly, but they are obviously a great importance to Hassan than Amir has put forward. The letter continues with a kind tone, "I pray that this letter finds you in good health", clearly suggesting that Hassan holds no grudge against Amir, and is not weighed down by those actions as Amir is. Hassan ends the letter by signing off as Amir's friend, showing that Hassan's love and loyalty have not waned over the years.

The key quote that summarises Hassan's attitudes and general kind nature and forgiveness towards the past is found very early in the novel: "for you, a thousand times over". Suggesting utter loyalty, devotion and pure emotion.