Test Review for The Outsiders Elements of Plot, Conflict, and Theme

Internal Conflict • Human vs. himself/herself • Johnny’s struggle w/ his fear after being beaten up by Socs • Dally’s struggle to control his anger • Pony’s feelings of shame over being a poor Greaser • Staying in hiding vs. turning themselves in

External Conflict • Human vs. Society • Greaser vs. Soc • Human vs. Nature • Pony vs. Darry • Human vs. Human

Elements of Plot

• Exposition • Rising Action • Climax • Falling Action • Resolution

Universal Themes • Discovering the purpose of one’s life • Human need for love & acceptance • Fear of death • Coming of age/growing up • There are forces of good & evil in the world, & the forces shape who we are

Themes in The Outsiders • All people have problems regardless of their social status • There is more to a person than just his/her appearance • Family can build you up or break you down • Violence accomplishes nothing good • Loyalty & trust between friends is important