Narrative Techniques - Truth Through Dishonesty
Here's something brilliant about Hosseini's writing: Amir is completely unreliable as a person, yet his narration stays brutally honest. This creates a fascinating contradiction - the dishonest person tells us the truth about his own cowardice.
The juxtaposition of the rape scene with the sacrifice of a lamb symbolises Amir's faithlessness. Like the lamb, Hassan is sacrificed for Amir's gain. Notice how Amir admits "I opened my mouth, almost said something, almost" - he knows exactly when he failed.
By presenting himself so badly, Amir sets up his need for redemption throughout the rest of the novel. When his father finally embraces him ("In his arms, I forgot what I had done"), we see how temporary validation can make us forget our worst moments.
Key Point: Amir had to betray Hassan to please his father - this impossible choice between friendship and family approval drives the entire story forward.