Individuality In The Kite Runner

How much do you really conform just for the acceptance of others? Personally speaking, most people believe they have a strong sense of individuality and uniqueness, yet psychologically we are all pretty similar. Throughout the novel The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, multiple characters are forced to conform their actions to others in order to protect themselves. When Amir, Baba and Hassan are fearful they submit themselves and assimilated to the desires of others in avoid conflict. Amir goes against his own beliefs in order to protect himself while under distress. The story illustrates this in the beginning when Assef attempts to pick a fight with Hassan and Amir. Despite treating Hassan like a brother, Amir begins to assimilate to Assef's beliefs of Hazarras while in fear. "But he's not my friend! I almost blurted. He's my servant! Had I really thought that? Of course I hadn't. I hadn't. I treated Hassan well, just like a friend, better even, more …show more content…
When Farzana was unfairly beaten for speaking too loud, Hassan was placed in a situation where he was unable to defend her and was forced to not intervene. "but what could I do except stand and watch my wife get beaten? If I fought, that son of a dog would have surely put a bullet in me, and gladly!" (Hosseini 216). Although Hassan knew Farzana needed support, he had to just stand and watch or he would be harshly punished. In a position of inferiority, Hassan was unable to retaliate without immediate domination. Through Hassan's letters, his point of view is established and shows how his actions are influenced by the belief that he is naturally inferior. Hassan is submissive in nature due to the fact he feel the need to show respect to those with power. Hassan fears for his wife but knows he is unable to intervene. Hassan was born into a position with little influence over anyone so in conflicts Hassan is forced to