The Theme of Heroism

The novel explores different definitions of heroism through the actions of Johnny, Dally, and the Greasers, questioning what it means to be a hero.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Johnny's Gallant Ideal

A New Definition The Southern Gentlemen Johnny is fascinated by the Southern gentlemen in Gone with the Wind. He says they remind him of Dally because they ride into sure death with gallantry. He admires their courage and self-sacrifice. Johnny's Heroism Johnny himself becomes a hero by saving the children. He says, "It's worth it. Their lives are worth more than mine." This is an act of true gallantry. He dies believing he has done something meaningful. The Contrast Johnny's heroism is quiet and selfless. He is not a stereotypical hero; he is a scared boy who does the right thing. The novel suggests that heroism is about sacrifice, not strength.

Dally's Unrecognized Heroism

A Hero Without a Medal The Newspaper Article The newspaper calls Johnny and Ponyboy heroes, but Dally is also mentioned. He went back into the burning church to save Johnny. But the paper focuses on his police record, not his bravery. Ponyboy's Reflection Ponyboy thinks that Dally saved Johnny, and that is heroic. But society will never see Dally as a hero because he is a hoodlum. The novel questions who gets to be called a hero. The Irony Dally does not care about being a hero. He only cares about Johnny. But his actions are no less brave than Johnny's. The novel suggests that heroism can be found in the most unlikely people.

Ponyboy's Choice to Tell the Story

A Different Kind of Heroism The Theme Ponyboy decides to write about his experiences. He hopes that by telling the truth, people will understand the greasers. Writing becomes his own heroic act. Johnny's Legacy Ponyboy is inspired by Johnny's note: "There's still lots of good in the world." He wants to be the one to show that. He is not fighting with fists, but with words. The Novel Itself The story we have just read is Ponyboy's theme. By sharing it, he becomes a hero in the sense of giving a voice to the voiceless. The novel ends with the beginning of his story, implying that telling it is the most important thing.

during the stay in the church, Chapter 5

after the fire, Chapter 7

the end of the novel, Chapter 12