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.