Comparing Johnny and Dally in The Outsiders

Throughout literature, characters often serve as representations of different values, beliefs, and behaviors. In S.E. Hinton's novel, The Outsiders, the characters Johnny and Dally stand out as contrasting figures in terms of their personalities, actions, and impact on the storyline. Johnny, a sensitive and empathetic young boy, stands in stark contrast to Dally, a tough and rebellious teenager. This essay will explore the similarities and differences between Johnny and Dally, highlighting their unique characteristics and analyzing how their contrasting qualities contribute to the overall themes and messages of the novel.

Johnny: The Sensitive Soul

Johnny, a greaser like the rest of the gang, possesses an innate sensitivity that sets him apart from his peers. From the beginning of the novel, Johnny is portrayed as a vulnerable and fearful character, constantly on edge due to the abusive environment he lives in. This sensitivity is evident in his interactions with others, as he often expresses deep compassion and empathy. For instance, when Ponyboy is jumped by a group of Socs, Johnny immediately comes to his defense, ultimately resulting in the accidental killing of a Soc member. This event triggers a series of events that lead Johnny to go on the run with Ponyboy.

Furthermore, Johnny's sensitivity is also evident in his relationship with children. Despite his troubled life, Johnny finds solace in his interactions with younger kids, such as his bond with the young Curtis brothers. Johnny's compassion and gentle nature make him a positive role model for these children, showcasing his ability to find light in the darkest of circumstances.

However, Johnny's sensitivity also leads to his ultimate downfall. When the greasers are faced with a life-threatening situation, Johnny makes a fateful decision to save the lives of innocent children, resulting in him sustaining severe injuries. As he lies on his deathbed, Johnny's final words to Ponyboy reflect his compassionate nature, urging Ponyboy to "stay gold" and reminding him of the importance of holding onto innocence and goodness in a harsh world.

Dally: The Rebellious Spirit

In stark contrast to Johnny's sensitivity, Dally is portrayed as a rebellious and hardened character. He exudes a tough exterior, often resorting to violence as a means of asserting dominance. Dally's rebellious spirit is evident in his interactions with authority figures, as he consistently challenges rules and societal norms. This rebellious nature also manifests in Dally's involvement in criminal activities, such as robbery and gang fights.

Despite his tough demeanor, Dally's loyalty to the gang is unwavering. He is willing to go to extreme lengths to protect and support his friends, as demonstrated when he helps Johnny and Ponyboy escape after Johnny's fatal encounter with the Soc. Although Dally's actions may seem selfish and reckless at times, his loyalty stems from a deep-rooted connection to the gang and a desire to shield them from harm.

However, Dally's rebellious nature and disregard for societal expectations ultimately lead to his tragic demise. Unable to cope with the loss of Johnny, Dally engages in a deadly confrontation with the police, resulting in his untimely death. This final act of rebellion, while highlighting Dally's loyalty and love for Johnny, also underscores the destructive consequences of a life lived outside the boundaries of societal norms.

Implications and Themes

The contrasting qualities of Johnny and Dally serve to highlight several themes in The Outsiders. Firstly, their differences underscore the complex nature of identity and the multitude of factors that shape an individual's character. While Johnny and Dally both come from similar backgrounds, their responses to their circumstances vary drastically, emphasizing the individual agency and personal choices that define their paths.

Additionally, the characters of Johnny and Dally explore the themes of loyalty and sacrifice. Johnny's selfless sacrifice for the children and his final words to Ponyboy reflect the importance of loyalty to one's friends and the impact that selflessness can have on others. On the other hand, Dally's loyalty to the gang, although expressed in a more reckless and violent manner, ultimately leads to his tragic end, highlighting the consequences of loyalty taken to the extreme.

Furthermore, the contrasting qualities of Johnny and Dally contribute to the overall message of the novel, which emphasizes the blurred lines between good and bad, right and wrong. The characters' complexities suggest that individuals cannot be neatly categorized as heroes or villains, but rather exist on a spectrum of morality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the characters of Johnny and Dally in The Outsiders serve as contrasting figures, representing different values, behaviors, and impacts on the storyline. Johnny's sensitivity and compassion highlight the power of empathy and selflessness, while Dally's rebellious spirit and loyalty underscore the consequences of living outside societal norms. The contrasting qualities of these characters contribute to the exploration of various themes and messages in the novel, emphasizing the complexities of identity, the importance of loyalty, and the blurred lines between good and bad. By examining the unique characteristics and implications of Johnny and Dally, readers gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of human existence and the choices we make.

Bibliography

Hinton, S.E. The Outsiders. Viking Press, 1967.