Where it is of utmost importance that a dispute be resolved for the benefit of those affected by it, the greater part of a society will resort to fighting; in this way, one of two general bodies may stand victorious. Such has always been the preferred method for solving a problem, and there can be a variety of reasons for an individual to feel inclined to fight. In S. E. Hinton’s novel The Outsiders, characters explore the reasons for which they fight, and their lives are altered by the fears derived from those reasons. According to the article “The (Only) Five Basic Fears That We Live By” by Karl Albrecht, all possible fears can be classified into one of five categories: Extinction, Mutilation, Loss of Autonomy, Separation, or Ego-death. Albrecht’s system of classification can thoroughly explain how these characters’ lives have been altered by fear.
Sodapop is described as “always happy-go-lucky and grinning,” an inherent trait contradictory to the story’s unhappy plot line. In accordance with his positive disposition, Sodapop explains that …show more content…
The relevant happenings of Two-Bit’s life during the story lead to an alteration of his perspective on people. When Two-Bit’s friend Ponyboy inquires of him the reasons for which he chooses to fight, Two-Bit responds by saying, “‘Shoot, everybody fights,’” showing Ponyboy his conformist mentality. Two-Bit’s being a conformist indicates a ‘Separation’ fear, as in the case of Sodapop. However, it is later revealed that Two-Bit has an appreciation for diversity when his mannerisms suggest that he does not want Ponyboy to change. “‘Ponyboy, listen, don’t get tough. You’re not like the rest of us and don’t try to be . . .” He says, expressing his genuine care for the unique characteristics of his friend’s personality. Two-Bit’s fears are ultimately what allowed him to recognize the importance of individuality, and they led to a new
Sodapop is described as “always happy-go-lucky and grinning,” an inherent trait contradictory to the story’s unhappy plot line. In accordance with his positive disposition, Sodapop explains that …show more content…
The relevant happenings of Two-Bit’s life during the story lead to an alteration of his perspective on people. When Two-Bit’s friend Ponyboy inquires of him the reasons for which he chooses to fight, Two-Bit responds by saying, “‘Shoot, everybody fights,’” showing Ponyboy his conformist mentality. Two-Bit’s being a conformist indicates a ‘Separation’ fear, as in the case of Sodapop. However, it is later revealed that Two-Bit has an appreciation for diversity when his mannerisms suggest that he does not want Ponyboy to change. “‘Ponyboy, listen, don’t get tough. You’re not like the rest of us and don’t try to be . . .” He says, expressing his genuine care for the unique characteristics of his friend’s personality. Two-Bit’s fears are ultimately what allowed him to recognize the importance of individuality, and they led to a new