Feminism In A Thousand Splendid Suns

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In society, women have a tendency to connect even when they come from extremely different walks of life. This connection, bond even, is responsible for change all across the board. Specifically in the novel by Afghan-American author, Khaled Hosseini, A Thousand Splendid Suns, the relationship between Mariam and Laila changes from hostile and spiteful to passionate and secure. Mariam, raised by a dysfunctional family, represents the injustices and inequality of women in Afghanistan, whereas, Laila, raised by supportive parents with liberal ideals, represents the underestimated women in Afghanistan. Although in the beginning the two women didn’t see eye to eye, in the end, both women come together and are able to coexist in the havoc in Afghanistan. …show more content…
Although both women come from completely different upbringings, they act as sisters, protecting one another from harm. Nonetheless, the two women face quite the deal of obstacles before escaping the shadows and shining like the vibrant suns they are. Subjected to polygyny, both women are in shockingly irking conditions, gravely affecting their mental and physical health. When the Hosseini states, “Mariam knew that she and Laila had become one and the same being to him, equally wretched, equally deserving of his distrust, his disdain and disregard.” (page 274) he achieves a sense of equality between both women. This equality destructs all past differences between the women, allowing them to cope and progress through the painstakingly squalor conditions of their once beautiful kolba. By the same token, the Hosseini is able to promote how Afghan women aren’t these helpless, mindless beings. Each and everyone one has a story to tell, and each and everyone needs to be heard. The depth of Mariam and Laila’s companionship shines through when Mariam says, “For me it ends here. There’s nothing more I want. Everything I’d ever wished for as a little girl you’ve already given me. You and your children have made me so very happy. It’s all right, Laila jo. This is alright. Don’t be sad.” (page 358). Not only does this quote highlight a goodbye …show more content…
The significant contrast, a woman of abuse and a woman of privilege, magnifies the uniqueness of women in Afghanistan, while at the same time magnifying the similarities they each share. A thousand splendid suns has a dual purpose, obviously being the title, but also being the representation of the true potential of Afghan women, hidden by negative forces such as war, domestic abuse, and inequality. It’s no wonder why Hosseini incorporated such strong willed women, Mariam and Laila, into his novel, for they embody such relatable characteristics for the audience to connect with while also teaching the audience a vital, priceless lesson. The evolving relationship between Mariam and Laila emphasizes how in the face of war and hardships, women in Afghanistan are capable of coming together as a
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