The Aspects of the Hero in S. E. Hinton’s the Outsiders
This essay about S.E. Hinton’s “The Outsiders” examines how the novel portrays heroism through its characters. Set against a backdrop of social conflict, the story focuses on the Greasers and the Socs, showing that heroism can manifest in various forms. Through characters like Ponyboy, Johnny, and Dally, the narrative reveals different facets of heroism, from maintaining personal integrity and showing true bravery to the complexities of heroic actions driven by deep emotions. The essay argues that “The Outsiders” challenges traditional views of heroism, presenting it as a quality that exists beyond conventional expectations and often in unnoticed or unappreciated forms. Through its analysis, the essay underscores the novel’s enduring relevance in exploring themes of identity, conflict, and morality.
S. E. Hinton’s novel “The Outsiders,” written in 1967, has remained a poignant exploration of adolescent strife and social divisions. This timeless piece of literature digs into the lives of young characters who, against a backdrop of socioeconomic conflict, exhibit various heroic traits that are as relevant today as they were at the time of its publication. The novel, which revolves around rival groups—the Greasers and the Socs—provides a canvas to explore the attributes of heroism displayed by characters who, on the surface, seem to inhabit the margins of their world.
At the heart of Hinton’s narrative is Ponyboy Curtis, a character who exemplifies the hero’s journey not through grand gestures but through introspection and resilience. Ponyboy’s ability to maintain sensitivity and a love for literature, despite the harsh realities of his life, marks him as a unique figure among his rougher peers. His reflective nature drives the reader to question the superficial measures by which society often judges heroism. His journey through the novel highlights how true heroism often lies in the strength to uphold one’s moral values and the courage to defy societal expectations.
Johnny Cade, Ponyboy’s close friend, offers another perspective on heroism. In the direst moment, it is Johnny who performs a literal act of heroism by rescuing children from a burning church. This pivotal scene not only redefines Johnny in the eyes of the community but also reshapes his own self-perception. His subsequent reflections and the letter he leaves for Ponyboy encapsulate a message central to Hinton’s theme: “Stay gold,” urging Ponyboy to remain true to himself and retain his inherent goodness despite the corrosive environment. This underscores another facet of heroism—sacrifice and the profound impact of altruistic actions on both the individual and the wider community.
Dally Winston, often seen as the archetype of the hardened delinquent, embodies a more complex form of heroism. His final acts, driven by grief and despair, are a testament to his deep, if not always apparent, sense of loyalty and protection towards Johnny. Dally’s story forces the reader to confront the notion that heroism can manifest in flawed, desperate actions, especially when influenced by profound emotional pain. His tragic end poses a critical question about the boundaries of heroism and the desperation that often drives heroic acts in desperate circumstances.
“The Outsiders” effectively challenges traditional perceptions of heroism through its nuanced portrayal of these young characters. Hinton’s narrative prompts us to reconsider who gets to be called a hero and why. It is not merely the visible acts of bravery that define a hero, but also the quieter acts of living authentically and caring deeply. The young protagonists of “The Outsiders,” with their distinct backgrounds and personalities, collectively demonstrate that heroism can thrive even in the least expected places.
In reflecting on these aspects, Hinton’s work remains significant in its capacity to engage with themes of youth, conflict, and identity. The novel’s exploration of what it means to be a hero continues to resonate, suggesting that heroism is a multifaceted concept, often found in everyday struggles and triumphs. As society evolves, the narrative of “The Outsiders” serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of these themes and the continuous relevance of examining them through the lens of literature.
Through the tapestry of its characters and their journeys, “The Outsiders” invites readers to look beyond conventional markers of heroism and consider the deeper, often overlooked acts of courage that shape our understanding of what it truly means to be heroic. This exploration is crucial for understanding both the text itself and its broader implications for discussing social issues and human values in any era.
The Aspects of the Hero in S. E. Hinton's The Outsiders. (2024, Apr 22). Retrieved from https://papersowl.com/examples/the-aspects-of-the-hero-in-s-e-hintons-the-outsiders/
