In a nation full of discrimination, violence and fear, a multitude of hearts will become malevolent and emotionless. However, people will rebel. In the enlightening novel A Thousand Splendid Suns written by Khaled Hosseini, the country of Afghanistan is exposed to possess cruel, treacherous and sexist laws and people. Women are classified as something less than human and men have jurisdiction over women. At the same time, the most horrific treatment can bring out some of the victims' best traits, such as thoughtfulness, bravery, and protectiveness. Although, living in a thoughtless world, women can still carry with them aspiration and benevolence. Mariam and Laila (the protagonists of A Thousand Splendid Suns) manage to maintain their consideration, courage and protection, as sufferers in their atrocious world. Mariam and Laila manage to maintain consideration under the most trying circumstances. Consideration is shown when Mariam and Laila take other facts or circumstances into consideration before making a judgment. An example of Laila's caring towards Mariam is the fact that Laila lies to defend Mariam, even though Mariam had been insensitive towards Laila:Mariam straightened up. “I hope you don't think this frees you from your household chores.” Laila opened her mouth and thought better of it. She reminded herself that Miriam was the only innocent party in this deal. Mariam and the child. Later, in bed, Laila burst into tears. What had happened? Rasheed wanted to know, lifting his chin. Was she sick? Was it the baby, was there something wrong with the baby? No? Was Mariam mistreating her? “That's all, isn't it?” «No» «Wallah or billah, I will go and teach her a lesson. Who does she think she is, that... middle of paper..., with saliva pouring from her mouth, her eyes shining with murderous intent, kicking until she can't stand it anymore. (305) Essentially, Laila and Mariam protect each other from Rasheed, but they also protect the other important people in their lives when they too are threatened. Equally important, they protect others, despite the lack of protection from the power of oppression. Mariam and Laila are caring, bold and protective while all their rights as human beings are oppressed. They can be courageous when there is everything to fear, and yet they take the risk, because they know it is right. Both will protect when they have not been protected from the danger of oppression. Laila and Mariam know how to be understanding in a thoughtless world. Together, Mariam and Laila exemplify the hidden defiance against oppression, a burning fire that fights back the darkness..