Heroes come in all shapes and sizes, and their actions can leave a lasting impact on those around them. In the novel The Outsiders by SE Hinton, Johnny Cade appears as a true hero, alongside his friend Ponyboy Curtis. Despite their difficult circumstances, Johnny and Ponyboy demonstrate remarkable courage, selflessness, and resilience, making them heroes in the eyes of their peers and readers. This essay will explore the different reasons why Johnny and Ponyboy are considered heroes, highlighting their admirable qualities and the profound effect they have on their community. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay One of the main reasons Johnny and Ponyboy are considered heroes is their act of saving lives. When they encounter rival gang member Bob Sheldon, Johnny's protective instincts kick in. In a moment of desperate self-defense, Johnny accidentally kills Bob and the two friends find themselves on the run. Despite fear and uncertainty, Johnny and Ponyboy decide to save a group of children trapped in a burning church. This courageous act demonstrates not only their courage, but also their selflessness and willingness to put the lives of others before their own. According to psychologist Philip Zimbardo, heroes are individuals who take risks to help others, often at great personal cost. Johnny and Ponyboy exemplify this definition by risking their safety to save the children. Their actions resonate with readers who admire their sense of duty and sacrifice. Furthermore, their heroism goes beyond the physical act of saving lives; it also serves as a powerful symbol of hope and inspiration for both their gang and the community as a whole. Another reason Johnny and Ponyboy are considered heroes is their ability to overcome adversity and challenge societal stereotypes. Growing up on the bad side of town, they face constant discrimination and prejudice. Despite these challenges, Johnny and Ponyboy refuse to succumb to the pressures of their environment and instead strive to rise above their circumstances. Johnny, in particular, is the victim of severe physical and emotional abuse at home. This abuse leaves him scarred physically and emotionally, and yet he remains gentle and caring towards others. His sensitivity and compassion are evident when he saves the children from the burning church, risking his own life to protect them. By defying the expectations placed on him, Johnny becomes a hero not only to his friends but also to readers who appreciate his resilience and determination. Likewise, Ponyboy challenges the "greaser" stereotype by pursuing his love of literature. Despite the limited opportunities and resources he has, Ponyboy immerses himself in books and poetry, using them to escape the harsh realities of his life. His intellectual curiosity and passion for learning inspires others to look beyond appearances and recognize their potential. Johnny and Ponyboy's heroic actions have a profound impact on their gang and the wider community. The selflessness they demonstrate in saving the children's lives creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to reconsider their own choices and actions. Through their courage and compassion, Johnny and Ponyboy challenge the idea that heroes are only found in books or on movie screens, demonstrating that anyone can become a hero through acts of kindness.