What does Amir observe about a double standard in Chapter 12?

In Chapter 12 of The Kite Runner, Amir observes a double standard regarding women's roles and expectations in Afghan society. This is most clearly seen in the contrast between Soraya's life and that of his own mother, and even in the way he and Baba treat the two women differently.

Here's a breakdown:

* Soraya's limited freedom: Soraya is a beautiful, educated young woman, yet she is expected to remain indoors, hidden from the world. Her father forbids her from leaving the house without his permission, and she faces social stigma for a past mistake that has cast a shadow on her reputation.

* Baba's treatment of Soraya's mother: Baba blames Soraya's mother for her "shameful" actions, yet he has a history of mistresses and doesn't face similar consequences. This highlights the unequal treatment of women in Afghan society.

* Amir's own behavior: Amir, despite his own desire for a woman like Soraya, doesn't challenge these double standards. He accepts the idea that women are expected to be subservient and obedient.

This chapter emphasizes the hypocrisy of Afghan society and the unfair burden placed upon women. Amir's own complicity in these double standards is an important point that foreshadows his struggles with his own guilt and morality later in the novel.