The Breadwinner Theme of Education

In The Breadwinner, Parvana's parents value education above all else—they're both university-educated themselves—and instill this value in their children. So when the Taliban forbids all girls to go to school, it's devastating to them not only because it denies their children opportunities, but also because they know that education is the only way Afghans will rise above the poverty and oppression that surrounds them. Without education, how can they triumph?

Questions About Education

  1. Why is the Taliban threatened by educated women?
  2. How do Parvana's parents teach her to value education?
  3. What kind of education does Parvana receive watching her parents overcome obstacles?
  4. Is education essential to the rebuilding of Afghanistan?

Chew on This

Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.

The Taliban keeps women uneducated so they remain submissive.

Education equals power, so by controlling the school, the Taliban controls society.