Amir and Hassan have a favorite story. Does the story have the same meaning to both men? Why does Hassan name his son after one of the characters...

Amir and Hassan enjoyed readings from the Shahnamah, with special emphasis on the story about Rostam and Sohrab. In the story, Rostam killed Sohrab only to learn Sohrab was his son. The emotions evoked by the story brought tears to Hassan’s eyes, but Amir did not know who the tears were for, Rostam or Sohrab.

The story was interpreted differently by the two boys. Amir saw himself as Sohrab, the young warrior, and his father...

Amir and Hassan enjoyed readings from the Shahnamah, with special emphasis on the story about Rostam and Sohrab. In the story, Rostam killed Sohrab only to learn Sohrab was his son. The emotions evoked by the story brought tears to Hassan’s eyes, but Amir did not know who the tears were for, Rostam or Sohrab.

The story was interpreted differently by the two boys. Amir saw himself as Sohrab, the young warrior, and his father as Rostam. The story reflects his relationship with his father. Amir does not comprehend Rostam’s grief or fate.

Personally, I couldn't see the tragedy in Rostam's fate. After all, didn't all fathers in their secret hearts harbor a desire to kill their sons?

Hassan’s interpretation is not explicitly given, but his emotions suggest he understands the situation between the father and his son. He goes on to name his son Sohrab because he was his favorite character in the story.