Character Relationship Map: The Outsider

Characters

• Ira Hamilton Hayes (played by Tony Curtis) — protagonist

  A 17-year-old Pima Marine who raises the flag on Iwo Jima but returns traumatized and alcoholic. He later attempts to advocate for his tribe's irrigation needs before attending a memorial dedication,...

• Pvt. James B. Sorenson (played by James Franciscus) — protagonist

  One of the six servicemen who hoist the flag on Mount Suribachi. He is the only Marine who does not mock Hayes and is killed by enemy fire shortly after the battle.

• Sgt. Kiley (played by Gregory Walcott) — supporting
• Gen. Bridges (played by Bruce Bennett) — supporting
• Uncle (played by Ralph Moody) — supporting
• Nancy Hayes (played by Vivian Nathan) — supporting
• Mr. Alvarez (played by Pete Homer) — minor
• Tyler (played by James Beck) — minor
• Rally Guest (uncredited) (played by Raoul Freeman) — minor
• John Bradley (played by Forrest Compton) — minor
• Ceremony Guest (uncredited) (played by Sam Harris) — minor
• Joseph Hayes (played by Charles Stevens) — minor
• McGruder (played by Jeffrey Silver) — supporting
• Chairlady (played by Mary Patton) — minor
• Mrs. Carl Sorenson (played by Kathleen Mulqueen) — minor
• Kim (played by Lynda Day George) — minor
• George (played by Vince Edwards) — minor
• Jay Morago (played by Edmund Hashim) — supporting
• Sgt. Boyle (played by Paul Comi) — supporting
• Noomie (played by Stanley Adams) — minor

Story Analysis

Explores the tragic journey of a war hero who becomes alienated by public expectation and personal trauma.

Plot Progression

1. Enlistment and Iwo Jima
2. Heroism and Hidden Trauma
3. Public Scandal and Political Plea
4. Rejection and Final Solitude