Is it possible to see Baba as a tragic hero? (21)

The definition of a tragic hero is a noble person with heroic or potentially heroic tendencies; however has a tragic flaw that leads to his downfall and a reversal of fortune. The audience typically pities this character. Although it may be argued that Baba is, in fact, a tragic hero, I do not believe that he is.

Some readers may see Baba as a tragic hero as Baba does hold some of the characteristics needed for him to be a tragic hero. For example, he is sometimes noble, as on occasion, he quite clearly shows that he has high moral principles, as a noble person would. For example, when he stands up for the woman in the truck. ‘I’ll take a thousand bullets before I let this indecency take place.’ This is considered particularly noble as, given the context in Afghanistan in 1981, to stand up to a Russian soldier in order to stand up for your morals, is noble and heroic.

Readers may also view Baba as a tragic hero, because, as a character, he most certainly does have flaws. From the way he treated Amir ‘Baba grunted, didn’t answer.’ (Chapter 2) to the adultery with Hassan’s mother, a high crime in Afghanistan in the past, especially with a servant, resulting in the birth of Hassan. The fact he kept this hidden for so long is a flaw in itself, as he sees himself to have the moral high ground on many occasions, for example, when he forgives Hassan from stealing from Amir.

However, these flaws do not instigate Baba’s downfall. It was down to the politics of Afghanistan, that Amir and Baba had to flee the country in 1981. Also, the emotional development of Baba proceeding leaving Afghanistan is highly beneficial, especially in Amir and Baba’s relationship. Although financially they don’t excel, culturally, Amir and Baba learn a lot, and Baba becomes much more understanding towards Amir.

Baba’s massive change