Chapter 13-14
Quotes
Record at least 5 quotes from your assigned reading. Include page numbers in the next column.
Respond, using a variety of reflection types. Use the codes above to label your responses and try to include a variety of different reflections.
- Question: Pose a question or record something that confuses you so far.
- Understand: Explain how a previous question or uncertainty has been answered for you.
- Evaluate: Make a judgment on the character's actions, the author's message, or another facet of the text.
- Reflect: Apply the quote to a broader theme or universal conflict. What does it tell you about the human condition?
- Your World: Make a connection between the text and your life or experiences.
| Quote | Response |
|---|---|
| "I envied her. Her secret was out. Spoken. Dealt with." | Reflect: This quote speaks to the human longing for confession and the freedom it brings. It mirrors the universal desire to be unburdened by our past, highlighting the cathartic power of sharing our deepest secrets. |
| "It's the happiest day of my life" | Your World: This quote, reflecting Baba's feelings about Amir's marriage, connects to the joy parents feel during their children's significant life events. It reminds me of the pride and happiness my parents showed at my graduation, a universal sentiment of parental love and pride. |
| "A bear had come that he couldn't best." | Evaluate: This metaphorical reference to Baba's cancer battle illustrates the inevitable human struggle against mortality. It judges the resilience and fighting spirit that characterizes human life, even in the face of insurmountable odds. |
| "Teaching may not pay much but it's what I want to do. It's what I love." | Question: Why does society often undervalue professions that are foundational to its development, like teaching? This quote raises concerns about societal values and priorities, questioning the recognition and support for educators. |
| "I actually said that to him, that I wished he were dead." | Understand: This quote, reflecting Soraya's guilt and regret over her harsh words to her father, underscores the complexity of family relationships. It helped me understand the depth of regret that can come from anger, and the importance of forgiveness and understanding in familial bonds. |
Character Details & Motives
These chapters introduce some new characters in Ami's life. Consider the details included about each character and write down what you can in the space below. Then, consider how each character contrasts or complements Amir's character, perspective, and motives.
Soraya
- Character Details: Soraya is depicted as compassionate, intelligent, and facing her own past mistakes with grace.
- Motives/Aspirations: She aspires to be a teacher, reflecting her love for education and desire to contribute positively to society.
- Contrast/Complement to Amir: Soraya's openness about her past and willingness to forgive herself contrasts with Amir's ongoing struggle with guilt and secrecy. Her strength complements Amir's need for redemption and understanding.
General Taheri
- Character Details: General Taheri is proud, traditional, and deeply concerned with social reputation.
- Motives/Aspirations: He aims to preserve his family's dignity and adhere to Afghan cultural norms.
- Contrast/Complement to Amir: His emphasis on honor and reputation contrasts with Amir's more personal journey of redemption. The General's rigid adherence to tradition highlights Amir's struggle between cultural expectations and personal desires.
Baba
- Character Details: Baba is a complex character, known for his strength, moral integrity, and difficulty in fully expressing love to Amir.
- Motives/Aspirations: Baba seeks to provide for Amir and live up to his own principles of right and wrong.
- Contrast/Complement to Amir: Baba's actions often contrast with Amir's in terms of bravery and moral fortitude. However, Baba's own secrets and regrets complement Amir's journey by reflecting the theme of redemption.
Khala Jamila
- Character Details: She is nurturing, musically talented, and deeply cares for her family's well-being.
- Motives/Aspirations: Khala Jamila wishes for her family's happiness and social acceptance.
- Contrast/Complement to Amir: Her nurturing nature and focus on family harmony complement Amir's longing for acceptance and love. Her traditional views on family and reputation contrast with Amir's more conflicted feelings about identity and belonging.