Introduction
A Thousand Splendid Suns is a novel written by Khaled Hosseini and published in 2007. The novel follows Mariam and Laila, two women who have been raised in very different circumstances, but eventually become close friends. Through the story, Hosseini explores themes of oppression, love, and resilience. Mariam, in particular, is a unique and powerful character—one whose development and growth throughout the novel is fascinating. This article will analyze Mariam’s character in A Thousand Splendid Suns, discussing her motivations, her relationships, and her growth throughout the novel.
Background & Family Life
Mariam was born out of wedlock to a wealthy man, Jalil, and a woman from the Hazara ethnic minority, the daughter of a servant. Mariam’s mother, Nana, was forced to give her up for adoption and Mariam was raised by her mother’s family, living in a kolba, a small mud hut, located in a rural village. Mariam’s life was one of servitude and she quickly learned to accept her place in life—a fact that Jalil never accepted. Jalil would often come to Mariam’s village and bring her presents, but would also berate her for being born out of wedlock. Even in the face of Jalil’s rejection, Mariam remained loyal to him and was never able to find the courage to stand up to him.
Relationships
Mariam’s relationships are central to her story. She has a difficult relationship with her adoptive father, Nana’s husband, who is often harsh and cruel to her. Despite the fact that she is treated as a servant, Mariam remains loyal to her adoptive family, seeing them as the only family she has. Mariam’s relationship with her mother is equally complex; she loves her mother deeply, but is also resentful of her for giving her up for adoption. Mariam’s most important relationship is with Laila, the daughter of a wealthy family who is eventually forced to marry Mariam’s husband, Rasheed. Despite the difficult circumstances, Mariam and Laila gradually become close friends and rely on each other for support and comfort.
Motivations
Mariam’s primary motivation is to find love and acceptance. Throughout the novel, Mariam craves the love of her father, Jalil, and the acceptance of her husband, Rasheed. She is desperate to be loved and accepted, and will do whatever it takes to earn it—even if it means sacrificing her own happiness. Mariam’s secondary motivation is to protect and take care of Laila and her children. Despite their difficult circumstances, Mariam is determined to keep Laila and her children safe and to provide them with the love and acceptance that Mariam herself has never received.
Growth & Development
Throughout the novel, Mariam experiences tremendous growth and development. She gradually learns to stand up for herself and to find strength in the face of adversity. Mariam also learns the importance of forgiveness and understanding. She is able to forgive her father, Jalil, and her husband, Rasheed, for the wrongs they have done to her. She also begins to accept herself and understand her place in the world. Mariam’s growth is a powerful and inspiring journey, and one that readers can’t help but be moved by.
Conclusion
Mariam is a complex and powerful character. Her story is one of resilience and strength, and her character arc is incredibly moving. Mariam’s motivations, relationships, and growth throughout the novel are fascinating and inspiring, and her story is one that readers will never forget. A Thousand Splendid Suns is a powerful novel, and Mariam is a truly remarkable character.
