Guilt and Atonement: Amir's Lifelong Burden

The theme of guilt and the need for atonement that drives Amir's actions throughout the novel.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The Original Sin

The Original Sin The Betrayal Amir's failure to stop Hassan's rape is the original sin. It haunts him for twenty-six years. He becomes an insomniac, unable to escape the memory. The Cover-Up Amir tries to bury his guilt by driving Hassan away. But the guilt only deepens. He cannot escape the past. The Escape In America, Amir tries to start over. He becomes a successful writer, but the guilt remains. He is a ghost in his own life.

The Atonement

The Atonement The Rescue Amir rescues Sohrab, risking his life. He is beaten nearly to death. The physical pain is a form of atonement. The Adoption Amir adopts Sohrab and brings him to America. He takes responsibility for the boy's welfare. He is determined to give Sohrab the life Hassan never had. The Healing Sohrab's smile is a sign that Amir's atonement is working. He has not erased the past, but he has made amends. The guilt is transformed into a commitment to do good.

winter of 1975

June 2001 to March 2002