The Kite Runner and Translations comparison points

• Internal conflict?

  Kite Runner- Amir and Baba both battle with their respective guilt, Amir with what he let happen to Hassan, and Baba with his rejection and lies about Hassan's parentage. Translations- Owen is conflicted between two sides of his identity, an English soldier or an Irish boy. He seems to reject Ireland and subconsciously thinks England is better, saying the 'king's good English' etc
• Military involvement?


  Kite Runner- The hostile takeover of the Taliban, rigid and unyielding with a very strict interpretation of Islam completely blown out of proportion and use of violence. The embodiment of this is Assef. Translations- British soldiers start as a peaceful but intrusive presence in Ireland, by the end they begin their onslaught on the Irish people fully after Yolland goes missing. Yolland is a culturally sensitive character who directly contrasts Assef.
• Religious conflict?


  Kite Runner-Sunni vs Shi'a Muslims in conflict with each other, as well as the ethnic groups of Pashtuns and Hazaras, with Hazaras being used as slaves/servants. Translations- Catholicism vs Protestant, the Irish stay with the old ways while England 'move forward' with their religion.
• The conflict between countries?

  Kite Runner- Afganistan vs Russia then the Taliban (immediately violent oppression). Translations- England versus Ireland (soft oppression to harsh oppression)
• Dysfunctional relationships?

  Kite Runner- Baba and Amir as father and son, Amir constantly tries to win Baba's approval. Amir and Hassan- Amir abuses Hassan in many ways, yet he has no choice but to stay loyal to him. Translations- father and son, High and Manus- Hugh depends on Manus to do things for him that he should be doing, but cannot as he is an alcoholic. Manus and Maire are engaged yet seem to not get along very well, constantly in conflict with one another.
• Functional relationships?


  Kite Runner- Ali and Hassan have a true bond, although they are not family- showing the importance of CHOSEN family over blood. Soraya and Amir work hard to be allowed a relationship but have a positive marriage by the end. Translations- Maire and Yolland's relationship is positive, yet not allowed to flourish due to the social constraints placed upon them.