what does jhonny care about in the out siders

3 min read 23-01-2025

what does jhonny care about in the out siders

Johnny Cade, a crucial character in S.E. Hinton's The Outsiders, is a complex and troubled youth. Despite his hardened exterior and difficult circumstances, Johnny demonstrates a surprising depth of feeling and unwavering loyalty to those he cares about. Understanding what Johnny cares about reveals the core of his character and the poignant themes of the novel.

Johnny's Deepest Concerns: Belonging and Protection

At his core, Johnny desperately craves belonging and acceptance. Abused at home, he finds solace and a sense of family within the Greaser gang. This yearning for connection is paramount in shaping his actions and decisions throughout the story. He's fiercely protective of his friends, a direct result of his own vulnerability and lack of a stable, loving environment.

Fear and Trauma

Johnny's past experiences have left him deeply scarred and fearful. The constant threat of violence from the Socs, coupled with the neglect and abuse he suffers at home, fuel his anxieties. This trauma profoundly impacts his behavior, making him quick to react with violence when threatened. However, beneath the surface of fear lies a deep well of loyalty and affection.

Loyalty to the Gang: His Chosen Family

Johnny's loyalty to the Greasers, particularly Ponyboy, is unwavering. This loyalty transcends the usual gang bonds; it's a testament to his need for belonging and the emotional connection he forms with his friends. He sees them as his family, the people who accept and protect him, filling the void left by his neglectful parents. This fierce loyalty drives his heroic actions later in the novel.

Protecting the Innocent: A Defining Act of Courage

Johnny's act of saving the children from the burning church exemplifies his capacity for selflessness and his protective instincts. Despite his own fear and the inherent danger, he acts without hesitation, prioritizing the safety of others over his own well-being. This selfless act underscores the goodness within him, a goodness often hidden beneath his troubled exterior.

What Johnny Values: Friendship and Redemption

Johnny's interactions throughout the novel highlight what he values most: genuine friendship and the possibility of redemption. He craves the approval and respect of those he considers his equals, and he desperately seeks a chance to prove his worth. His connection with Ponyboy provides him with a sense of purpose and belonging, motivating him to make positive changes in his life.

Ponyboy: A Deep and Meaningful Friendship

His relationship with Ponyboy is central to his character arc. Ponyboy represents hope and a chance for a better future. Johnny's unwavering devotion to Ponyboy demonstrates the depth of his capacity for love and loyalty. He sees in Ponyboy a reflection of the innocence and goodness he desires for himself.

Finding Purpose Through Acts of Kindness

The act of saving the children in the burning church isn't merely a heroic deed; it provides Johnny with a sense of purpose and self-worth. He finally feels he has done something truly good, something that transcends his troubled past and offers a glimmer of redemption. This act serves as a powerful symbol of his desire for self-improvement and a better life.

Conclusion: Beyond the Surface of a Troubled Youth

Johnny Cade, despite his troubled past and hardened exterior, is a character driven by deep-seated needs for belonging, protection, and redemption. His loyalty, selflessness, and capacity for love reveal a complex and compassionate soul, making him one of the most compelling and memorable characters in The Outsiders. His actions and motivations remind us that even the most troubled individuals can possess remarkable inner strength and a profound capacity for good. Understanding what Johnny cares about allows us to appreciate the nuances of his character and the powerful message of hope embedded within the novel.