The Outsiders Chapter 1 Plot 1
He is Ponyboy's older brother who works hard to support their family.
Darry
Where is Ponyboy at the very beginning of the chapter?
He is walking home alone after watching a movie at a theater in Tulsa.
Why is Darry so strict with Ponyboy and Sodapop?
Since their parents died in a car accident, Darry is responsible for his younger brothers; he is hard on Ponyboy because he is afraid that if they get into trouble, they will be separated by the authorities.
Who says, "I lie to myself all of the time. But I never believe me."
Ponyboy
What activity does Ponyboy enjoy in his free time?
Going to the movies or reading
What are the two main rival groups mentioned in the story, and how are they different?
The Greasers and the Socs. The Greasers are from the East Side and are poorer, while the Socs are from the West Side and are wealthy.
What sacrifice did Darry make to support his family?
He passed up a college scholarship to work in construction so he could provide for his brothers and keep the family together.
Who says: "Yeah, since it ain't a school night."
Darry, Ponyboy's older brother
Who does Ponyboy describe as the "gang's pet"?
Johnny
Why does Ponyboy prefer to watch movies alone, even though it can be dangerous?
He enjoys watching movies undisturbed so he can "get into" them, but he admits he wishes he had company for safety.
Examine the internal conflict Ponyboy feels toward Darry. Why does Ponyboy "bristle" at Darry’s words even though Darry saved him?
Ponyboy feels that Darry is too strict and doesn't love him. He doesn't yet realize that Darry's harshness comes from the massive responsibility of being a 20-year-old "parent" trying to keep his brothers out of the foster care system.
Who says: "Cause I'm dumb. The only things I was passing anyway were auto mechanics and gym."
Sodapop
Who is the gang member known for being the toughest?
Dally
Who follows Ponyboy in a red Corvair, and what do they do to him?
A group of five Socs follows him, pulls over, pins him down, and threatens to cut his hair with a switchblade.
Analyse the symbolism of the Red Corvair. Why is this car more than just a vehicle to the Greasers?
The car is a symbol of the Socs' wealth, mobility, and power. Because the Greasers are on foot and the Socs have fast, expensive cars, the Corvair represents a predatory threat that can appear and disappear quickly, leaving the Greasers vulnerable.
Who says, "Me and Darry just don't dig each other. I never could please him."
Ponyboy
What secret does Sodapop share with Ponyboy at the end of the chapter?
He thinks he is going to marry Sandy.
How is Ponyboy rescued from the Socs?
He screams for help, and his brothers (Darry and Sodapop) along with other members of the Greaser gang hear him and chase the Socs away.
How does Ponyboy's behavior, doing homework and liking movies, make him an "outsider" within his own gang?
While most Greasers are "hoods" who fight and steal, Ponyboy is academic and artistic. He is caught in an ethical dilemma as he is loyal to his gang's identity, but his personal interests align more with a world beyond the "East Side" street life.
Who says: "Nice cut, too. Makes you look tough"
Two Bit