| Dead Poets Society Essay, Research Paper
“It was Mr Keating’s blatant abuse of position as teacher that led directly to Neil’s
death.”
We are asked to discuss the above statement after watching the movie: “Dead Poets
Society”. This statement I feel is ridiculous and when I have finished this essay you will
agree.
The school was a dull, meaningless place where tradition and reputation was put before
creativity and education. That was until Mr Keating, came to the school as an English
teacher. He focused around Poetry. He taught the boys to express themselves and do
what they in their hearts wanted to do, not what their parents wanted them to do.
The boys found a photo of Mr Keating in an old yearbook with the caption under
reading- “Alan Keating, Leader of the Dead Poets Society.” The boys approached Mr
Keating about what the DPS was. He told them they would sneak out at night and sit
the old Indian cave and read brilliant poetry. Neil, one of the more energetic boys,
suggested that their group continue this tradition, and they, in turn agreed.
Mr Keating taught the boys to enjoy the poetry and let them speak out about what
they wanted to be. He taught them to be individuals. But eventually allegations that he
was responsible for Neil’s death came flying back at him.
Neil wanted to be an actor. He was very good at it and performed in the local
production of: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”. His father, however wanted him to be a
doctor. After Neil’s superb performance his father rushed him home and told him that he
was sending him to Military school for another ten years to stamp out any further ideas
of his acting.
Neil shot himself that night.
Students, parents and teacher immediately looked for someone to blame and the
headmaster, Mr Norton picked out Mr Keating as the unlucky scapegoat.
But gallantly Mr Keating’s students defended him and stood up on their desks chanting:
“Oh Captain, My Captain”, much to the displeasure of Mr Norton.
So ‘no’, I don’t think Mr Keating’s actions was responsible for Neil’s death. I think Neil
chose to commit suicide because the pressure from his father who wanted to live out
his dreams through his son. I It was Mr Keating who taught Neil and the others to
express themselves.
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