A Thousand Splendid Suns

In what ways do the gender expectations placed on both Tariq and Laila influence their behavior?

This is from the book a thousand splendid suns

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In Chapter 23, we see Tariq and Laila's relationship evolve, and also how the traditional gender roles of their community influence what they do. As teenagers, Tariq and Laila are seen in a whole new light by the adults around them. As a result, what is expected of their behavior changes drastically. Leila's mother wants her to distance herself from Tariq and preserve her reputation..... even innocent relationships can be perceived as sexual within their community. Thus, purity is essential.

Tariq, on the other hand, unlike Leila, is finding all kinds of freedom because of his age. He's allowed to wear different clothing and be flirtatious. He's allowed everything Leila is not.

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A Thousand Splendid Suns