The Kite Runner: Foil Relationship

In The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini, Baba and Amir act as foils. Baba is tough and strong. A story of him tells how he wrestled a bear and won. Amir is weak and timid. He writes stories instead of going outside and playing sports. The only part of culture that Baba and Amir share a passion for is the annual Kite Flying Tournament. While they are on the refugee truck, Baba defends the helpless woman and threatens the Russian soldier, while Amir tries to calm his father down and save his life: " 'Baba, sit down please,' I said, tugging at his sleeve. 'I think he really means to shoot you.' Baba slapped my hand away. 'Haven't I taught you anything?' " (Hosseini, 116). This difference between father and son further contributes to Amir's struggle for confidence. In the end, Baba becomes proud of Amir when he marries Soraya. Amir has gained Baba's acceptance, so now he has to renew his friendship with Hassan.