The book Dead Poets Society revolves around a group of friends who revive the old club called "The Dead Poets Society." Their new English teacher, Mr. Keating, who also attended Welton Academy, introduces them to this club. The group consists of Neil Perry (the leader), Charlie Dalton, Knox Overstreet, Todd Anderson, Stephen Meeks, and Richard Cameron.
The boys have special meetings outside of school where they read poems to each other. Todd Anderson chooses not to participate in reading poems, and although he doesn't explain why, it seems that he is afraid of reading aloud. One night, Knox has to attend a dinner at the home of one of his dad's friends, the Danburrys. He expects the evening to be dull, but he unexpectedly meets Chris, who is the girlfriend's son.
Amongst various occurrences, Mr. Keating, their English teacher, strives
...to teach the students to think independently and not conform to societal norms. However, the protagonist develops strong feelings for a girl who is already in a relationship with someone named Chet. This unrequited love adds to his struggles, as the conservative nature of their school makes it difficult for him to embrace his individuality. One of the ways Mr. Keating encourages uniqueness is by urging them to walk in a distinct manner.
Mr. Keating not only changes the students' perspective but also encourages them to see the world from a different angle by allowing them to stand on his desk and observe the classroom. These unconventional lessons provoke the boys to think in unique ways and consider alternative approaches to living their lives. Among them, Neil undergoes the most significant transformation. Although his father controls him like
a puppet, Neil becomes inspired by the notion of participating in a play.
Neil pretends to write a letter from his dad to Mr. Nolan, the headmaster of the school, in order to obtain permission. However, his father discovers the deceit and becomes extremely angry. Consequently, Neil approaches Mr.
Keating advises him to speak to his father about his passion for acting, urging him to seize the day, or "Carpe Diem".
It is the words that Knox finds solace in when he desires to express his love for Chris. He goes to Chris' school and reads his poem aloud in front of her and her classmates. Once he finishes reading, he departs. Shortly after, Chris pays a visit to his school just before they attend Neil's play. Despite her frustration with Knox, they ultimately go to the play together.
Despite the success of the play and the support for Neil, his father is angry with him for not sharing all the information Mr. Keating gave him. Consequently, Neil's father brings him back home.
Neil receives a scolding from his father, while his mother remains silent. Consequently, he is being expelled from Welton and forced to attend military school, which he vehemently opposes. In the dead of night, when his parents are unaware, Neil descends the stairs, seizes his father's revolver, and tragically takes his own life. This devastating event leaves his parents, friends, and the entire school community in deep grief. Todd, Neil's roommate, becomes consumed with anger towards his own father. Additionally, Charlie, who had a tumultuous relationship with the school (such as advocating for girls' inclusion), is expelled for physically assaulting Cameron, who had betrayed the secrets of
"The Dead Poets Society" to the school administration.
The school later compels all the boys to sign a statement accusing Mr. Keating of being responsible for all that had transpired. However, Todd exhibits his refusal to sign it and bravely confronts his father, thereby showcasing his deep admiration for Mr. Keating.
When Mr. Keating stands up on his table, all the other boys in the school follow suit. After thanking the boys, Mr. Keating departs from the school.
Answer: The boys standing up on their desks symbolizes their rebellion against conformity and the traditional education system.It represents their admiration and respect for Mr. Keating, as well as their determination to seize the day and live life to the fullest.It is significant that Todd is the one who starts this because he was the shyest and quietest student, never daring to say or do anything. It displays respect towards Mr. Keating and demonstrates their true learning from him.
Keating taught him to be true to himself and he expresses his gratitude to Mr. Keating for his guidance.
- Culture essays
- Social Control essays
- Citizenship essays
- Social Justice essays
- Caste System essays
- Social Responsibility essays
- Socialization essays
- Deviance essays
- Modern Society essays
- Popularity essays
- Civil Society essays
- Community essays
- Female essays
- Filipino People essays
- Igbo People essays
- Indigenous Australians essays
- Indigenous Peoples essays
- Minority Group essays
- Social Institution essays
- Men essays
- The nation essays
- Middle Class essays
- Social Norms essays
- Discourse Community essays
- Popular Culture essays
- Car Culture essays
- American Culture essays
- Mormon essays
- Indian Culture essays
- Mexican Culture essays
- Pop Culture essays
- Cultural Differences essays
- Culture Shock essays
- Different Cultures essays
- 12 Angry Men essays
- A beautiful mind essays
- A Separation essays
- Alfred Hitchcock essays
- American Beauty essays
- American Films essays
- Animation essays
- Avatar essays
- Blade Runner essays
- Bollywood essays
- Bond essays
- Bridge essays
- Cinema Of The United States essays
- Comedies essays
- David essays
- Dead Poets Society essays