Central to Akhtar’s Disgraced is Emily’s portrait of Amir in the style of Diego de Silva y
Velazquez’s Portrait of Juan de Pareja (an image of Velazquez’s painting is in Course
Documents). Juan de Pareja was Velazaquez’s slave and assistant, who Velazquez later freed.
For this topic, you need to explore and explain how the painting influences the perception that
readers have of Amir in this play. In developing your thesis, ask yourself the following
questions: (1) how do you view Amir in this play? (2) how do other characters view him? (3)
how does the painting connect to these views (they reflect them? go against them? show
conflicting or contradictory views)? Your answer to the last question will help you fine-tuned
your thesis.
Once you have a thesis, you need three points that directly deal with the painting and the views
of Amir. Some suggestions are the following: (1) what motivates Emily to paint the portrait in
(2) Isaac’s view of Amir in the painting, (3) Amir’s multiple reactions to the painting, (4) Amir’s
reactions to being the subject of the painting, and (5) the last scene in which Amir takes “a
searching long look” (1210) at the painting. These are suggestions; you are free to develop your
own points. Remember all three points must work to illustrate how the painting relates to Amir’s
view of self. Note: Using the suggestions that I have listed will not affect your grade on the
paper.
