The Beekeeper of Aleppo

by Christy Lefteri

The Beekeeper of Aleppo: Foil 1 key example

Chapter 10 
Explanation and Analysis—Nuri and Afra:

Nuri and Afra are the core of the novel, and their relationship forms almost all of the emotional thrust of the narrative and their individual character arcs both involve how they relate to each other. As Nuri is the protagonist, Afra consequently functions as his foil. This dynamic is not uncommon for married couples in literature. Nuri and Afra stand out in that their love for each other is never the source of conflict—even when Nuri contemplates mercy killing his wife, or when he is disgusted by her presence, his feelings are always a reflection of his and Afra's external circumstances.