Answer:
The blue Mustang symbolizes status and wealth to the Soc's and represents a symbol of rivalry to the greasers in 'The Outsiders'. The 1960s nonconformity is exemplified through various styles and behaviors, including the adoption of blue jeans and the hippie movement. 'Bravery and freedom' are abstract concepts of nonmaterial culture associated with the American flag.
Step-by-step explanation:
In S.E. Hinton's novel, The Outsiders, the blue Mustang represents two very different things to the two rival groups, the Soc's and the greasers. For the Soc's, the blue Mustang symbolizes status and wealth, as it is a visible display of their higher social position and financial capabilities. In comparison, to the greasers, the blue Mustang is a symbol of rivalry, as it is often associated with the Soc's, their archenemies, who have the resources and privilege they lack.
Symbolism plays a significant role in literature by using physical objects to represent abstract ideas. Likewise, the 1960s were marked by the adoption of styles and behaviors that expressed nonconformity. Alongside blue jeans, other nonconformist expressions included the hippie movement with its colorful clothing and relaxed attitudes towards life, the popularity of psychedelic music and art, and the widespread civil rights and anti-war protests which all served as symbols against mainstream culture and societal norms.
In the context of the question regarding the American flag, bravery and freedom are examples of nonmaterial culture, as they are the abstract ideas and values that people associate with the flag beyond its material existence.