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 emerges as a true hero, along with his friend Ponyboy Curtis. Despite difficult circumstances, Johnny and Ponyboy show remarkable courage, selflessness, and resilience, making them heroes in the eyes of their colleagues and readers. This essay will explore the various 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 Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay One of the main reasons why Johnny and Ponyboy are considered heroes is their act of saving lives. When they encounter Bob Sheldon, a member of the rival gang, 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 not only demonstrates 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 own 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 at large. Another reason why Johnny and Ponyboy are considered heroes is their ability to overcome adversity and defy social stereotypes. Growing up in the wrong part 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 overcome their circumstances. Johnny, in particular, suffers severe physical and emotional abuse at home. This abuse leaves him scarred both physically and emotionally, yet he remains kind and caring towards others. His sensitivity and compassion are evident when he saves children from the burning church, risking his own life to protect them. 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 stereotype of a "spreader" by pursuing his love of literature. Despite the limited opportunities and resources at his disposal, Ponyboy immerses himself in books and poetry, using them as an escape from the harsh realities of his life. His intellectual curiosity and passion for learning inspire others to look beyond appearances and recognize the potential within themselves. Johnny and Ponyboy's heroic actions have a profound impact on their gang and the larger community. The selflessness they demonstrate in saving children's lives creates a ripple effect, inspiring others to reconsider their 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, proving that anyone can be a hero through acts of kindness and courage. In the novel, Johnny's heroism causes a change in dynamics. of rival gangs. His sacrifice brings about a momentary truce between the Socs and the Greaters, highlighting the potential for unity and understanding between seemingly divided groups. This..