Theme Of Oppression In A Thousand Splendid Suns

Almost every individual deals with oppression somewhere in their lives whether it is over gender, religion, or class. Some experience it more than others depending on their circumstances. In the novel, A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini oppression is shown as one of the dominant themes. When comparing both protagonists it is evident that Mariam deals with far more oppression than Liala. This is seen through the characters background/upbringing by their parents and their views on education. As well as both their experiences with relationships, and the outcome of their lives. Firstly, both Mariam and Laila come from very different backgrounds due to their parents and their views on education. Since Mariam is considered a “harami” her parents make her live isolated from town and away from people. This does not give the opportunity to go out, even if it is to the movies. When Mariam tells her parents she wants to go to her father’s cinema, her mother tells her it is not a good idea in a very controlling and stern tone. “ Mariam could feel her hard, accusing glare” (Hosseini 26). Mariam asking her parents permission to go to the cinema clearly causes …show more content…
When comparing both characters, it is evident that Mariam deals with far more oppression than Laila. This is seen through the character 's upbringing/background, and their parents views on educations. Also both their experiences with relationships and pressure during those relationships show who is more oppressed. As well as how their fates turned out to be, which included unfair mishaps and a happy ending that more than one character deserved. Oppression shows up in all individuals lives whether is is over gender, religion, or class. A few deal with it more than others depending on their circumstances and where they are in the