FOIL

FOIL A character who acts as contrast to another character. Often a funny side kick to the dashing hero, or a villain contrasting the hero.
pg. 221 "A boy who won't stand up for himself becomes a man who won't stand up for anything."

It is a reoccuring theme, the desire Amir has for his father to be proud of him. It is what causes Amir to make the decision not to help Hassan and it is what makes Amir believe that he is a weak man. Baba has stories of fighting a bear and he is admired by the entire afghan community for his donations and strong will. One event that really shows Baba's character is when he stands up to the Russian soldier who wants to rape the Afghan woman in order for the travelers to pass. Amir, on the other hand, won't fight for himself when the other boys pick on him. He is not athletic and would rather stay inside and read a book. Baba is disapointed with Amir constantly and becomes frustrated with Amir's emotions. This direct contrast is what drives the plot of the story. Amir would have helped Hassan if it woudn't have put his father's pride in jepordy. Hassan may have continued to live with Amir and would have gone to America. Amir wouldn't have felt like he needed to prove himself to be couragous when he travels back to affghanistan, if Baba hadn't been always shutting him down.