Time Period:
* Language and Slang: The characters use slang like "greaser," "soc," "heater," and "tuff" which are indicative of the 1960s.
* Cultural References: The book mentions Elvis, the Beatles, and other popular figures of the 1960s.
* Fashion: The greasers wear leather jackets, jeans, and slicked-back hair, which were popular styles in the 1960s.
Location:
* Geography: The story takes place in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This is mentioned explicitly in the book, and the descriptions of the town, including the Curtis brothers' home in the "small town," give a clear sense of place.
* Social Hierarchy: The book explores the conflict between the greasers (lower class) and the socs (upper class) which is a social divide that existed in many American cities in the 1960s.
* Specific Locations: The book mentions places like the drive-in, the Dairy Queen, and the abandoned church, which help to create a sense of place within Tulsa.
* Environment: The book describes the setting as a hot, humid summer, which further reinforces the time period and location.
Social Context:
* Gang Culture: The prevalence of gangs like the Greasers and the Socs, and the violence between them, points to the social unrest of the 1960s.
* Race Relations: While not explicitly addressed, the book's depiction of the social hierarchy suggests the racial tension that existed in the United States during this period.
* Teenage Rebellion: The book explores the themes of teenage rebellion, delinquency, and the clash between generations, all prevalent themes of the 1960s.
By combining these clues, readers can paint a vivid picture of the setting of *The Outsiders*, placing the story firmly in Tulsa, Oklahoma in the mid-1960s.