Kite Runner Blog 1- Baba

    Explanations and examples of Amir's dad, Baba, are many and vivid within the first two paragraphs of chapter three. Through the use of diction, descriptions, and figures of speech, the reader easily becomes familiar with Baba. 
   Firstly, Baba's superiority to (nearly) anyone else is suggested within first two sentences: the introduction of the folk-tale-like story of Baba wrestling a black bear "with his bare hands." A bear is often considered a classic representation of pure evil and strength, and for a character to defeat one is to be regarded with the utmost respect and awe, which is just the case with Baba for "no one ever doubted the veracity of any story about Baba." The use of this simple anecdote about Baba presents the majestic and even mysterious nature of Baba. 
   Secondly, the outright descriptions of Baba's stature and appearance add to his character development. Not only was Baba a "towering...six-foot-five" but he also had "a thick beard," an physical manifestation of his manliness. The use of rhetorical devices also aids in his description. A metaphor establishes his intrinsic force by saying that Baba is "a force of nature." And his social affluence is exemplified through a simile; as Baba enters a room "attention shift[s] to him like sunflowers turning to the sun." The use of both of the rhetorical devices in describing Baba reinforce Amir's opinion of him as being naturally powerful and respected. 
   Every examination of Baba's physical appearance adds to the reader's perception of his morals, attitude, and relationships.