Characters
The narrator of The Outsiders
Who is Ponyboy Curtis
Fill in the quote: I barely heard him. I came closer and leaned over to hear what he was going to say.
"Stay _____, Ponyboy. Stay ______..."
What is: gold?
The circumstances that lead to Johnny and Ponyboy seeking help from Dally at Buck Merril’s place?
After Johnny kills Bob to protect Ponyboy, they go on the run and turn to Dally for guidance and resources.
How does The Outsiders explore the idea of familial bonds outside of biological families? (Provide examples from the text.)
The Greasers function as a chosen family, offering support and loyalty to each other, as seen in how they rally to protect Johnny and Ponyboy after Bob’s death and care for each other during difficult times.
The name of Sodapop's horse.
What is Mickey Mouse?
Described as “the gang’s clown” but has a serious side hidden beneath his humor.
Who is Two-Bit Matthews.
Fill in the quote:
WHEN I STEPPED OUT into the bright sunlight from the darkness of the movie
house, I had only two things on my mind: _______________ and a ride home.
Who is: Paul Newman?
The reason Johnny caries a switchblade and what it foreshadows in the story.
For protection after being jumped by the Socs, which foreshadows his use of it to kill Bob in self-defense.
How does The Outsiders examine the impact of socioeconomic status on friendships and relationships?
The novel demonstrates that socioeconomic divisions create barriers, like the tension between the Socs and Greasers, but also highlights moments of connection, such as Cherry and Ponyboy’s shared appreciation for sunsets.
The author's full name.
Who is Susan Eloise Hinton?
This character says the line: “We’re all we have left. We ought to be able to stick together against anything".
Who is Sodapop Curtis?
Fill in the quote:
"Nature's first __________,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf’s a flower;
But only so an hour.
Then leaf subsides to leaf.
So Eden sank to grief,
So dawn goes down to day.
Nothing gold can stay."
What is: green is gold?
This motivates Dally to rob a grocery store after Johnny’s death, and this is revealed about his character.
Dally is overcome with grief and hopelessness, feeling he has nothing left to live for. This act reveals his self-destructive nature and inability to cope with loss.
How does The Outsiders address the idea that violence is often a product of misunderstanding and fear?
The conflicts between the Socs and Greasers stem from stereotypes and misjudgments, with characters like Randy and Cherry recognizing that their fighting only perpetuates the divide.
DAILY DOUBLE: What does the phrase “Nothing gold can stay” mean in the context of The Outsiders, and how does it relate to Ponyboy and Johnny’s friendship?
The phrase signifies the fleeting nature of innocence and beauty. It relates to Ponyboy and Johnny’s bond because their shared moments of understanding and purity, like appreciating sunsets, are contrasted with the harsh realities they face, growing up with violence and loss.
This character stayed with Ponyboy in the ambulance and then the waiting room after the church fire.
Who is Jerry Wood?
Fill in the quote: I'll tell you something, Ponyboy, and it may come as a surprise. We have _______ you've never even heard of. You want to know something?" She looked me straight in the eye. "Things are ______ all over."
What are: troubles & rough?
What specifically Johnny admires about the Southern gentlemen from Gone with the Wind, and how this connects to his fate.
their gallantry and bravery, which reflects his death due to his heroic act.
What does the novel suggest about the concept of masculinity & toughness, particularly through characters like Johnny, Dally, and Darry?
It challenges traditional ideas of toughness, showing Johnny’s quiet bravery, Dally’s emotional vulnerability masked by aggression, and Darry’s strength as a caregiver and protector.
Director of The Outsiders film (1983)
Who is Frances Ford Coppola?
Described as a husky blond, this character stepped forward in the rumble. He was halfback on Darry's football team at high school; he and Darry were once close friends.
Who is Paul Holden?
Fill in the quote: "You know what a Soc is?" I said, my voice shaking with rage. "White trash with Mustangs and ________."
What are: madras."
How Ponyboy’s perspective on Bob changes after his death, and what specific evidence contributes to this shift.
Ponyboy realizes Bob was more than just a violent Soc; he was also a troubled kid seeking attention and guidance. Randy’s & Cherry's descriptions of Bob’s highlight this.
In what ways does The Outsiders challenge traditional definitions of heroism?
The novel portrays unlikely heroes like Johnny, who sacrifices himself to save children from a fire, and Dally, whose loyalty to his friends shows a different kind of courage despite his flaws.
Why does Ponyboy feel the need to write The Outsiders as his English assignment, and how does this connect to the novel’s message?
Ponyboy wants to share his story to help others understand the pain and humanity behind the labels of "Greasers" and "Socs." This act connects to the novel’s overarching message of breaking down stereotypes and fostering empathy.