1. The relationship between amir and hassan is, in some ways, intended to highliht the contrast between the shiite sunni sects. Describe four elements of social contrast between these two groups.

2.hosseini used irony in comparing life in california to that in afghanistan. give two examples of such irony

plz help i don't get it

Ahh -- this is my favorite book of the last several years.

Your first question asks how the two groups were different. How were Amir's and Hassan's lives different.

If you need to refresh your memory about the meaning of irony, check this definition.

http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/irony

Sure! I can help you understand these questions. Let's take them one at a time.

1. The relationship between Amir and Hassan in the novel "The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini is indeed intended to highlight the contrast between the Shia and Sunni sects. Here are four elements of social contrast between these two groups:

a) Social Status: Amir belongs to the privileged Sunni ethnic group, while Hassan is part of the marginalized Hazara community, who are generally Shia. Sunni Muslims have traditionally held higher social status in Afghanistan, whereas the Hazaras have faced discrimination.

b) Education Opportunities: Amir receives a formal education and attends school, which is not easily accessible to Hassan due to his social background. This difference in educational opportunities showcases the disparity between the two groups.

c) Socioeconomic Conditions: Amir's family enjoys a comfortable lifestyle, whereas Hassan's family faces poverty. This economic contrast indicates the disparity in living conditions between the two sects.

d) Power Dynamics: In the novel, it is implied that Sunni Muslims, like Amir's family, hold more power and authority compared to the Hazaras. This power difference contributes to the unequal treatment and prevailing tension between the two groups.

2. In "The Kite Runner," Khaled Hosseini uses irony to contrast life in California with life in Afghanistan. Here are two examples of such irony:

a) Freedom: After escaping from the war-torn Afghanistan and settling in California, Amir and his father experience the irony of freedom. In Afghanistan, they were constrained by the oppressive Taliban regime, but in California, they have the freedom to pursue their goals and live without the constant fear and restrictions they faced back home.

b) Safety: Another example of irony is the contrast between the safety and security Amir and his family find in California compared to the constant danger and instability in Afghanistan. In California, they are able to rebuild their lives without the constant threat of violence and conflict, which was a part of their everyday reality in Afghanistan.

Understanding irony involves recognizing unexpected contrasts or discrepancies between what is expected and what actually happens. By examining these examples, you can better appreciate how Hosseini uses irony to portray the differences between life in California and Afghanistan.

I hope this helps you understand the questions better! If you have any further doubts, feel free to ask.