How does the novel The Outsiders show readers that being a hero is more than simply being brave?

Bravery is certainly a quality displayed by heroes. However, in The Outsiders, there are many instances when characters display heroic qualities other than bravery. Loyalty is one such quality. The boys consider each other as brothers. For example, when Ponyboy wants to run away after Darry hits him, he runs to get Johnny. Johnny asks no questions. He simply goes along with Ponyboy. Another example of loyalty occurs when Ponyboy and Johnny go to Dally for help. Dally provides them with money and tells them how to find a place to hide. He safeguards their secret and provides assistance because he is loyal.
Another quality shown by the boys is selflessness. One such example is seen in the hospital. As Two-Bit and Ponyboy are visiting Dally, Dally expresses the need to win the rumble against the Socs. Upset upon hearing the latest news of Johnny's state, Dally asks Two-Bit for his blade. Two-Bit's blade is his "prize possession," yet he hands it to Dally without hesitating. Darry also displays selflessness by giving up college to take care of his brothers. He puts the needs of his brothers ahead of his own.

S.E. Hinton illustrates how characters who are considered heroes in the novel are more than just brave individuals. Characters like Darry, Dally, Johnny, and Ponyboy selflessly help others. Each of these characters sacrifices something for the benefit of other people. Darry sacrifices an athletic scholarship and a college education to keep his family together, while Johnny and Ponyboy risk their lives saving children from the burning church. Dally is considered a hero because he not only helps Ponyboy and Johnny hide from the police but also saves Johnny's life by dragging him from the burning building. In each instance, the characters put other people's needs in front of their own. Although each of the characters are brave, Hinton suggests that a hero is also someone who sacrifices something for the benefit of others. Darry, Dally, Ponyboy, and Johnny are all selfless individuals who help others even when it does not benefit them.