Characters
Who is the protagonist of The Outsiders?
Who is Ponyboy Curtis?
What does the sunset symbolize in the novel?
The sunset symbolizes the beauty of life and the common ground between the Greasers and Socs.
What event starts the conflict between the Greasers and the Socs?
The conflict starts with the attack on Ponyboy by the Socs.
"When I stepped out into the bright sunlight from the darkness of the movie house, I had only two things on my mind: Paul Newman and a ride home"
Who is Ponyboy?
The Police
What is the fuzz?
Which character is known for his happy, go-lucky side?
Who is Sodapop Curtis?
What does the blue mustang represent in the story?
The blue mustang represents wealth and the Socs' social status.
What major event occurs in the church that changes the lives of Johnny and Ponyboy?
The church catches fire, and they rescue the children inside.
"Stay gold, Ponyboy"
Who is Johnny?
Wealthy socialites who often clash with the Greasers.
Who are the "Socs"?
Which character carries a switchblade as his prized possession?
Two-Bit Matthews
A greaser's pride and identity
How does Johnny's death impact Ponyboy?
Johnny's death deeply affects Ponyboy, leading him to reevaluate his life and the world around him. He loses some of his innocence.
"...people get hurt in rumbles, maybe killed. I'm sick of it because it doesn't do any good. You can't win, you know that don't you?"
Who is Randy?
Cool or awesome
What is "Tuff"?
Who is Darry's rival? (Also played high school football with him)
Paul Holden
What does the term "gold" symbolize in Johnny's letter to Ponyboy?
"Gold" symbolizes the innocence and beauty of youth.
Describe the outcome of the rumble between the Greasers and the Socs.
The Greasers win the rumble. Socs run away.
"You don't just stop living because you lose someone. I thought you knew that by now. You don't quit!"
Who is Darry?
A delinquent or someone involved in criminal activity.
What is "Hood"?
Who is Dally's rodeo partner?
Who is Buck Merril?
Discuss the significance of the poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay" in the context of the novel.
It symbolizes the fleeting nature of youth and innocence.
What is the significance of the ending of the novel?
The ending signifies hope and the possibility of change for Ponyboy as he decides to write about his experiences.
"Shoot, everybody fights"
Who is Two-Bit?
The German term for "coming of age"
What is buildingsroman?