HOPE AMIDST STRUGGLE: THE SYMBOLIC ROLE OF THE SON'S BIRTH IN KHALED HOSSEINI'S NOVEL A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS

Abstract

Khaled Hosseini uses the birth of a son in his novel A Thousand Splendid Suns as a symbol of hope amid the conflict and oppression of women in an Afghan society. This scene in the novel is not just significant for its literal meaning; it symbolizes hope, change, and the strength of Afghan women. Hosseini envelops readers into both private stories and public issues skillfully; the birth embodies themes of power, renewal, and the resilience that is inherent in the human spirit. The birth of the son also marks a turning point in Laila's struggle against oppression and for her renewed hope for herself and her children. This paper aims to discuss the thematic and symbolic meaning of this event, linking it to the socio-political development of Afghanistan and its problems. Using the themes of motherhood, tenacity, and even social commentary, this paper situates the son’s birth as a narrative device that drives Hosseini’s overarching message of hope and perseverance amidst adversity. In addition to this analysis, the paper also revives general connotations of this symbolic moment and their applicability to present-day discourses on gender, culture, and perseverance.

Keywords: Afghan women, Symbolism, Pashtun Culture, Son’s birth, Khaled Hosseini, A Thousand Splendid Suns.