Compare and Contrast Ponyboy and Jane

Author’s note: This essay is about comparing two different characters from two different novels. Ponyboy Curtis from the Outsiders, and Jane from Just Jane.

How are characters so alike in two completely different stories? In many ways. As in their personalities, looks, age, how they view people, family situations, friends ect. In this case, Jane from "Just Jane" and Ponyboy Curtis from "The Outsiders" are very alike, but as well different in so many ways. The reasons are their parents both died. A difference is Jane is an only child, and Ponyboy has two brothers. Although these novels are so different, it’s amazing how characters can be the same with completely different backgrounds.

First of all, Ponyboy is a poor kid practically living on the streets among his family. Ponyboy’s family isn’t what you would expect, though. His parents died in a car crash forcing his older brother Darry to take care of him, and his other brother Sodapop. The three brothers are in a gang called the Greasers and have many supportive friends that also are in tough situations just like the Curtis brothers. Jane has a lot in common. Her parents had died as well, at a young age, and moves to live with her family. Of course not everything is the same, like Jane is rich, and has related family unlike Ponyboy the opposite.

The differences between these two characters are just about as much as the similarities. They are different because Jane has related family to rely on, and doesn’t live on the streets. In fact she is treated like royalty to her family and friends. On the other hand, Ponyboy is treated very poorly causing him to have wrong actions and leaving town with his friend Johnny.


Although they have differences their similarities are the same amount as well. Something they have in common is having no parents. Jane was an orphan and Ponyboy was living with his brothers. Not a lot of people know what it’s like to have both of their parents dead so I think that’s a major thing they have in common. If I knew both of them in person I would have a feeling their personalities would be alike just because of the things they say, other than the fact Jane is a little brat, and Ponyboy is very respectful.


When there is a difference, there is always a similarity. These novels "Just Jane" by William Lavender and "The Outsiders" by S.E Hinton are perfect examples of how two totally different people can be alike in just as many ways.