An "outsider" is a character that does not belong in society. He or she does not fit within the society's norms and expectations so he or she is cast out because they are feared or because of their looks, traits, status, background, or family. A real life example of an "outsider" character would be homeless people. They are seen as the lowest of people and they are feared and pitied. The "outsider" is an archetypical character that is often used in literature. This is because it conveys the harsh reality of life and how the conventional hero is not always the dominant archetype. The novel of Mercy Among the Children is a tragedy that outlines "misfits" and "outsiders" and how they persevere through the challenges forced upon them by society.