A Thousand Splendid Suns: Character Profiles

Mariam

Mariam is one of the two main characters in A Thousand Splendid Suns.
She is the illegitimate daughter of Jalil and Nana and suffers from deep-rooted feelings of worthlessness and rejection due to societal rejection and her mother’s harsh words.
Mariam’s life is defined by loss and sacrifice.
She displays tremendous strength and endurance despite her hardships.
Over the course of the novel, her development as a character is seen as she transforms from an innocent girl to a loyal and selfless woman.

Laila

Laila is the second protagonist and the embodiment of modern Afghan women.
Born to educated parents, Laila is brought up with the values of resilience and education.
She experiences a great deal of trauma and heartbreak but remains strong and determined.
Even in the face of oppressive societal norms, Laila champions women’ rights, especially the right to be educated.
Her role is significant in the context of highlighting women’s condition under Taliban rule.

Rasheed

Rasheed is the antagonist of the novel and represents oppressive patriarchal norms.
He is a complex character, capable of both affection and brutal cruelty, shaping the experiences of both Mariam and Laila.
Rasheed thrives on power and holds distorted views on masculinity.

Tariq

Tariq is Laila’s childhood friend and first love.
He shares Laila’s aspiration for a better future and also symbolises resistance.
Tariq’s disability and his resilience make him a powerful character and inspiration for Laila.

Jalil

Jalil is Mariam’s father and a wealthy businessman who embodies selfishness and cowardice.
His inability to stand up for Mariam during crucial moments marks him as a symbol of societal patriarchy.

Note: Understanding these key characters and their strengths, weaknesses, and transformations helps to grasp the book’s themes and the author’s approach to storytelling. The novel’s characters all undergo profound changes, providing rich material for character analysis.