Dally Winston, a character in SE Hinton's novel The Outsiders, is known for his rebellious nature and involvement in criminal activity. Throughout the text, Dally is portrayed as a troubled individual engaging in various illegal acts. This essay will explore the crimes committed by Dally, examining their meaning in the context of the story. By analyzing the implications of his actions, we can more fully understand Dally's character and the impact of his choices on the narrative. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Dally's criminal behavior is evident first and foremost in his frequent involvement in petty crimes. He is shown to be engaging in activities such as shoplifting, vandalism, and traveling around. For example, in one scene, Dally is caught stealing cigarettes from a convenience store. This incident highlights his contempt for authority and his willingness to break the law for personal gain. These petty crimes reflect Dally's rebellious nature and his desire to assert his independence. Supporting Evidence - In Chapter 2, Ponyboy describes Dally's shoplifting incident: "He pulled the pack of Kools out of his pocket and contemptuously threw it at the man behind the counter... 'Paid?' he asked, all innocently" (Hinton 17). This quote demonstrates Dally's boldness and lack of remorse for his criminal actions. Analysis: Dally's involvement in petty crime reveals his disillusionment with social norms and his desire to challenge authority. By engaging in these illegal activities, he positions himself as an outsider, rejecting the expectations placed on him by society. Although Dally's petty crimes are relatively minor, he also becomes involved in more serious criminal activity. His association with the gang, involvement in organized crime and participation in violent altercations demonstrate the extent of his criminal behaviour. For example, Dally is shown to carry a switchblade and engage in physical fights with rival gangs. These actions not only endanger himself but also those around him, contributing to the escalation of tension and violence within the story. Supporting Evidence - In Chapter 6, Dally is involved in a fight with the Socs: "Dally had a switchblade in his hand. Two -Bit had a black-handled switchblade." (Hinton 138). This quote illustrates Dally's willingness to resort to violence, highlighting the dangerous nature of his criminal activities. Analysis: Dally's involvement in serious crimes demonstrates his desperation and disregard for the consequences of his actions. His criminal behavior serves as a coping mechanism, a way to release his frustrations and assert control in a chaotic world. However, it also highlights the destructive path he has chosen and the impact it has on himself and those around him. In conclusion, Dally Winston's character in The Outsiders is characterized by his involvement in various criminal activities. Through his participation in petty crimes and more serious crimes, Dally embodies rebellion and defiance. His criminal behavior not only shapes his character, but also influences the overall narrative, contributing to themes of social class, identity, and the consequences of one's choices. By examining Dally's crimes, we gain a deeper understanding of his motivations and the implications of his actions. This exploration of Dally's character provides valuable insight into the complexities of adolescence, the challenges of overcoming society's expectations, and the, 1967.