Johnny Cade's Heroism
What makes a person a hero? Perhaps heroism is defined by a large muscular figure, an unwavering bravery, and cape. This isn't always the case, however. In the book The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton, Johnny Cade is a hero. He risked his life for others and was able to step-up and overcome his personal fears when others needed help. Johnny inadvertently finds that helping others gives his life meaning and worth. Johnny first shows his heroic qualities early in the story when he tells Dally to “Leave her alone,”(Ch 2, pg.32) referring to their first meeting with Cherry at the movies. This is important because Johnny admired Dally a lot and it took an extensive amount of courage for Johnny to stand up to his hero, especially since Cherry is a
Soc. Johnny also shows us he is a hero when he saves Ponyboy from drowning in Chapter 4. Without regard for himself, he makes the decision to kill Bob in order to save Ponyboy. “I had to. They were drowning you, Pony,” (Ch 4, pgs 64-65). This is also an important moment for Johnny because he has to conquer his own fears in order to save Ponyboy. Johnny is the ultimate hero when he gives his life to rescue innocent children from the burning church. Even though it was obvious that he was getting hurt, Johnny never stopped. “His face red-marked from falling embers,” (Ch 6, pg 101). “He looked like he was having the time of his life.” Johnny didn't think his life was worth living in the beginning of the story. “I'll kill myself or something,” (Ch 3, pg 55). However, in the end, he realized he didn't really want to die. “I don't want to die now,” (Ch 8, pg 129). All of these qualities that made Johnny a hero are also what helped hold the gang together and how he risked his life.
In conclusion, Johnny may have not been what most people would think of when they think of the word, “hero.” However, his selfless acts for humanity to help his friends and those around him sure made him a valued martyr. Even against all odds, Johnny mustered up his courage, counquered his fears, and risked his own life for the sake of others, well knowing the consequences. This truly made Johnny Cade a hero.
Soc. Johnny also shows us he is a hero when he saves Ponyboy from drowning in Chapter 4. Without regard for himself, he makes the decision to kill Bob in order to save Ponyboy. “I had to. They were drowning you, Pony,” (Ch 4, pgs 64-65). This is also an important moment for Johnny because he has to conquer his own fears in order to save Ponyboy. Johnny is the ultimate hero when he gives his life to rescue innocent children from the burning church. Even though it was obvious that he was getting hurt, Johnny never stopped. “His face red-marked from falling embers,” (Ch 6, pg 101). “He looked like he was having the time of his life.” Johnny didn't think his life was worth living in the beginning of the story. “I'll kill myself or something,” (Ch 3, pg 55). However, in the end, he realized he didn't really want to die. “I don't want to die now,” (Ch 8, pg 129). All of these qualities that made Johnny a hero are also what helped hold the gang together and how he risked his life.
In conclusion, Johnny may have not been what most people would think of when they think of the word, “hero.” However, his selfless acts for humanity to help his friends and those around him sure made him a valued martyr. Even against all odds, Johnny mustered up his courage, counquered his fears, and risked his own life for the sake of others, well knowing the consequences. This truly made Johnny Cade a hero.