Tyranny In The Outsiders

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is about the main character, Ponyboy Curtis, who struggles through life and faces reality. There are two groups in this novel the Greasers— the lowest rank in the social class and the Socials— highest rank in the social class. Darry and Sodapop Curtis are Ponyboy's older brothers who, along with being greasers, are adjusting to life on their own after the death of their parents. Darry steps into the responsibility of guardianship, forfeiting college and working to enable the three of them to stay together. Not once does Darry give up on Ponyboy, but instead pushes him to reach his potential— even if he may be a little harsh. Darry can thus be classified as a mentor for not only Ponyboy but for the other Greasers

He has to raise and keep his two brothers safe. “ ‘You don't ever think,’ Darry broke in, ‘not at home or anywhere when it counts. You must think at school, with all those good grades you bring home, and you've always got your nose in a book, but do you ever use your head for common sense? No sirree, bub. And if you did have to go by yourself, you should have carried a blade.’ ” (Hinton 12) This quote represents Darryh teaching and mentoring Ponyboy in the ways of life. He wants to protect his little brothers and thus he gives them advice hoping that one day, they’ll be able to reach their potential. “ He mumbled something drowsily. ‘Listen, kiddo, when Darry hollers at you... he don't mean nothin'. He's just got more worries than somebody his age ought to. Don't take him serious... you dig, Pony? Don't let him bug you. He's really proud of you 'cause you're so brainy. It's just because you're the baby--- I mean, he loves you a lot. Savvy?’ ” (Hinton 15-16) This quote also represents Darry pushing Ponyboy to reach his potential. As Sodapop states in the text, Darry is only harsh to Ponyboy because he wants to see Ponyboy reach his potential. Even though Darry can be a little mean, he only ends up being mean because of his love, care, and teaching skills towards his younger

He tries to remain calm for every situation which are some good skills of being a mentor, but when he cannot remain calm, he stresses out and does something irrelevant to the topic ropes him back from being a mentor. Darry caring for his brothers and pushing them to reach their goals and potential is a good example of mentor skills abilities. Hurting someone physically and emotionally in a fit of rage and stress is not a good example of mentor skills and abilities. Overall, Darry is a two-faced character. At times he is an excellent mentor and at others he tries a little too hard and loses his ability of