I have to write a persuasive essay on proving Johnny, from the Outsiders novel, is not quilty for killing Bob. If you have read the story can someone please give me some reasons for why Johnny is not. Thank you!
It's been years since I read the book but wasn't Johnny cleared of charges in the book? Wasn't it ruled that he acted in self-defence?
This site may help you with that.
http://www.sparknotes.com/lit/outsiders/
To effectively write a persuasive essay proving that Johnny from the novel "The Outsiders" is not guilty for killing Bob, it is important to analyze and present evidence from the story to support your arguments. Here are a few possible reasons you can explore:
1. Self-defense: One of the main arguments in Johnny's defense is that he acted out of self-defense. Clearly, Bob and his friends were attacking Ponyboy and Johnny, and the killing occurred as a response to this threat. Look for quotes and incidents in the novel that highlight Johnny's use of force as a necessary means to protect himself and Ponyboy.
2. Protecting Ponyboy: Johnny's actions were motivated by his desire to protect Ponyboy, his closest friend. Show how he was willing to risk his life to save Ponyboy during the attack, and argue that the killing of Bob was an unfortunate consequence of this larger act of selflessness.
3. Context and environment: Consider discussing the challenging circumstances in which Johnny and the greasers find themselves. Explore the themes of social class, poverty, and the tension between the greasers and the Socs. This contextual analysis can support your argument that Johnny's actions were a result of the hostile environment he was surrounded by.
4. Lack of support system: Johnny's troubled family life, lack of positive role models, and his abusive parents are factors that contribute to his actions. Argue that Johnny's upbringing and the absence of a stable support system pushed him into a situation where he felt he had to resort to violence.
5. Emotional trauma: Discuss how the trauma Johnny experienced from past encounters with the Socs continues to affect him, leading to heightened fear and anxiety. Present evidence to support the argument that Johnny's emotional state contributed to his decision to use lethal force when he felt his life was in danger.
Remember, these points are suggestions to get you started, and your essay should develop these ideas further with direct references to the novel and thorough analysis of the text. Good luck with your essay!