Symbolism in The Outsiders

Literary Symbolism “Without symbolism there can be no literature; indeed, not even language. What are words themselves but symbols” Arthur Symons

Symbol Something – a person, object, situation or action which operates on two levels: the literal and the symbolic For instance, an engagement ring is a real object But it also stands for the abiding love of the engaged couple

All language is symbolizing one thing or another. A symbol is a word or object that stands for another word or object. The object or word can be seen with the eye or not visible

For example, a dove stands for Peace The dove can be seen and peace cannot When reading the book of Genesis in the bible, you will find several symbols. In the story of Adam and Eve, when Eve ate the apple, the apple stood for sin.

More conventional symbols which may be expressed as words or pictures: a flag for country (“the flag”) Go Hogs! Red Razorback for the University of Arkansas an X at the end of a letter for a kiss XXX (“smack!”) “spring” as the symbol of new beginnings a slash line through a sign for NO, as in “No Parking”

FLAGS – symbolize a nation U.S. flag is a symbol of our nation, but it also stands for freedom, liberty, and patriotism UNCLE SAM - also a symbol for the U.S. When we see symbols in literature, they are expected to have significance.

Symbols in literature are expected to have significance What symbols are evident in the novel we are reading, The Outsiders? Have you noticed the following symbols?

Greasers The switchblade represents strength and power. The Greasers, the lower class, felt safer when carrying this defense. It was their choice of weapon against harm that may come from the opposing social group, the Socs.

Socs The blue Mustang represents the upper class Socs. It stands for money power and authority. It was Bob’s rings, symbols of wealth, that were used to cut up Johnny’s face so badly the day he was left for dead.

A symbol of the lower class Many Greasers started smoking at an early age It made them feel older and helped them to fit into their group. Later it became a way of passing time and keeping calm.

The drive in movie theatre was a place where the Greasers and the Socs shared the same turf. Both social groups enjoyed the theatre together. It was a place where they could co-exist.

The horse represents innocence The horse represents innocence. Soda’s horse, Mickey Mouse, connects the boys to youth. Soda enjoyed the horse as a young boy. When the horse was sold, Soda was devastated. He shared a special bond with the horse that he could not again duplicate.

The church was a safe haven for both Ponyboy and Johnny. It was a hideout for them as they were hiding from their crime. It was a place that allowed them to be themselves and reflect on their lives. Later, it was the burning church that allowed them to show their true colors.

So What? So now that we know about the symbols… SO WHAT? Why did S.E. Hinton deliberately (on purpose) use these particular symbols? What purpose do they serve in the novel?

Symbolism After discussing the symbols found in the novel, The Outsiders….. You are going to demonstrate your understanding of symbolism in literature by completing the following activity about yourself!