Heros In The Outsiders

In the book The Outsiders, written by S.E. Hinton, the lower-class, known as the Greasers, and the upper-class, known as Socs, deal with the animosity and daily struggles they have with each other. The novel focuses on the struggles and experiences with being an outsider to society and coping with the rich side of town through Ponyboy’s eyes. His life changes when tensions rise and many tragic things happen to the Greasers and Socs that will create agony in many but heroes in a few. The three topics addressed in this compelling novel are the fight between the rich and the poor, the power of friendship, and what it means to be a hero.

First, the Greasers always felt insecure and had to be aware of their surroundings because they were

For instance, “It had taken more than nerve for him to say what he'd said to Dally—Johnny worshiped the ground Dallas walked on, and I had never heard Johnny talk back to anyone, much less his hero.” (pg. 24) This means that even though Johnny respected Dally because he was there for him when his parents weren’t, he took a risky step and stopped him from doing something wrong. By doing this, it shows that Johnny isn’t afraid to protect others like Cherry when the situation involved his friend Dally. More importantly, “I swear, you three are the bravest kids I’ve seen in a long time. First you and the blacked-haired kid climbing in that window, and then the tough-looking kid going back in to save him. Mrs. O'Briant and I think you were sent straight from heaven. Or are you just professional heroes or something?” (pg. 95) As shown, it is important to realize that Johnny, Ponyboy, and Dally wouldn’t only defend their gang members, but they would also endanger their own lives in order to save others. It proves that their act of heroism can be used in all situations. No matter what situation they are in, the Greasers use their heroic actions towards not only their gang members but other people