Characters and Relationships
Who is the main character of The Outsiders?
Ponyboy
Why does Darry hit Ponyboy the night he runs away?
Because he was worried and lost his temper when Ponyboy came home late.
What does “Stay gold” mean?
Stay good/innocent
What does “madras” refer to?
A type of plaid shirt the Socs wear.
What can you tell about Johnny’s home life?
It’s abusive and unhappy.
Which greaser is the “pet” of the group?
Johnny
What makes Ponyboy realize that Darry truly cares about him?
Darry cries at the hospital when he sees Ponyboy.
What theme is shown when Ponyboy says the Socs see the same sunsets?
People aren't so different.
What does "the fuzz" mean to the Greasers?
The police
What can you infer about Randy after he refuses to fight in the rumble?
He is tired of the violence and wants change.
Why does Johnny feel safer with the greasers than with his own family?
Because the gang treats him with care, unlike his abusive parents.
Why do Ponyboy and Johnny cut their hair and change their appearance?
Why do Ponyboy and Johnny cut their hair and change their appearance?
What is the novel trying to show about judging others?
You shouldn’t judge people by their group or background.
What does the poem “Nothing Gold Can Stay” talk about?
Good things don't last / innocence fades.
What can we infer about Ponyboy’s feelings toward the Socs after talking to Randy?
He realizes Socs have problems too and begins to see them as human, not enemies.
Why is Cherry considered a “bridge” between the Socs and the greasers?
She understands both sides and doesn’t judge Ponyboy.
How does Johnny’s decision at the church fire show he has changed?
He chooses to risk his life to save the children, showing bravery and selflessness.
What theme does the rumble show?
Fighting doesn't solve anything.
What does it mean when Ponyboy says Darry’s eyes are “cold as ice”?
He seemed angry or tough.
After the rumble, Ponyboy insists he was the one who killed Bob. What does this show about his emotional state?
He is confused, traumatized, and trying to protect himself from the pain of Johnny’s death.
Who is the toughest and most reckless greaser?
Dally
Why is the rumble disappointing or confusing for Ponyboy afterward?
Because winning doesn’t solve anything—problems like poverty, violence, and grief still remain.
What lesson does Ponyboy learn by the end?
Everyone has problems, and kindness matters
What is a stereotype?
A general idea about a group of people that may not be true.
How do we know Ponyboy grows at the end?
He writes his story to help others understand.