Good afternoon, everyone.

We’re here to present Dead Poets Society Released

in 1989, a film about how Mr. Keating inspires his students to “seize the day”
and think for themselves. We’ll be covering various aspects of the film,
presented by:

Arsh Khanna

• Dishita
• Divyansh Jeshwal
• Divyanshi
• Gurnoor
• Isha
• Santosh
• And me, Devansh Kalra

To begin, Dishita and Isha will discuss the role of poetry in the film.

Poetry is a form of literary expression that uses rhythmic and metaphorical language
to evoke emotions, convey ideas, and capture experiences. It often relies on devices
like imagery, sound, and structure to enhance its meaning.

In "Dead Poets Society," poetry represents freedom of expression and the pursuit of
individuality. The film emphasizes the transformative power of poetry, showing how it
can inspire students to think critically and embrace their passions. It highlights the
tension between societal expectations and personal authenticity, encouraging the
characters to "seize the day" and live life fully.

Historically, poetry has roots in oral traditions, evolving from ancient storytelling and
rituals to a written art form. The film reflects this evolution by showcasing how poetry
can be a vehicle for self-discovery and rebellion against conformity.

Now that Dishita and Isha have explored the role of poetry, let’s move on to
the play by Santosh and team.

(After the play)

The play reflected how Mr. Keating encouraged students to follow their
passions and think for themselves, just as we saw in the movie, now, Gurnoor
will share a brief summary of the film, and Divyansh Jeshwal will elaborate on
the central idea.

Summary:
Dead Poets Society takes place in 1959 at the conservative Welton Academy. A
group of boys, led by Neil Perry and Todd Anderson, are inspired by their new
English teacher, John Keating, who encourages them to "seize the day" and think
independently. Under his influence, they revive the secret "Dead Poets Society,"
where they explore poetry, self-expression, and the meaning of life. Neil pursues his
passion for acting against his father’s wishes, but when his dreams are crushed by
his authoritarian father, he takes his own life. Keating is blamed for the tragedy and
is forced to leave the school, though his impact on the students is lasting, as seen in
the iconic final scene.

Central Idea:
The central idea of Dead Poets Society revolves around the tension between
individuality and conformity. John Keating’s philosophy of "carpe diem" pushes the
students to break free from societal and institutional expectations to pursue their
passions and live authentic lives. However, this message clashes with the rigid
traditions of Welton Academy and the students' families, particularly in Neil’s tragic
story, which highlights the personal cost of not being able to reconcile one's dreams
with external pressures. The film explores how education, art, and freedom of
thought can inspire individuals to live fully, even in the face of harsh realities

Next, let's dive into the key messages of Dead Poets Society.

Message-Driven Insights

• Isha:
"Now, let's delve into the message-driven insights from Dead Poets Society.
Firstly, Mr. Keating’s message urges us to seize every moment, to take
control of our lives and live fully."
• Dishita:
"Education in Dead Poets Society goes beyond academics; it is a force for
personal growth and self-discovery."
• Divyanshi:
"Conformity can stifle creativity and personal happiness, as we see in Neil’s
tragic story."
• Santosh:
"The film emphasizes the importance of pursuing your passions, even when
faced with opposition."
• Divyansh:
"Keating teaches us to value our unique perspective and follow our own path,
as seen in the students standing on their desks."
• Devansh:
"Challenging authority is essential for personal growth, but it comes with
risks."
• Gurnoor:
"While Keating encourages his students to dream, he also highlights the
importance of being grounded in reality."
• Isha:
"Keating’s role as a passionate teacher changed the lives of his students,
teaching them to think freely."

Now, we’ll move on to character sketches, starting with Todd Anderson,

followed by Neil Perry and Richard Cameron.

Todd Anderson (Dishita):

Todd begins as a shy, insecure student, overshadowed by his brother’s success. He
struggles to find his voice and express himself. However, under Keating’s guidance,
Todd experiences significant growth. By the end of the film, he finds the courage to
stand up for himself and his beliefs, even defying authority in the process.

Neil Perry (Divyanshi):

Neil is passionate about acting but is trapped between his dreams and his father’s
strict expectations. Keating’s encouragement fuels Neil’s passion for the arts, but his
inability to confront his father’s control leads to tragic consequences. Neil’s story
highlights the dangers of suppressing one’s individuality.

Richard Cameron (Arsh):

Cameron represents the traditional, rule-following side of Welton Academy. He is
uncomfortable with Keating’s methods and prefers to stick to the rigid structure of the
school. His fear of rebellion leads him to betray his friends to protect himself,
showing his prioritization of self-preservation over loyalty or growth.

After Listening to this makes me interested in how John Keating is

Debate:

Isha (Pro-Side):
John Keating was an inspirational teacher who encouraged his students to think
independently and seize the day. He helped them discover their voices and embrace
their individuality. Through unconventional methods—like tearing pages from
textbooks and standing on desks—Keating broke the mold of traditional education
and inspired creativity. Students like Neil and Todd found courage and confidence
because of his teachings. This is what makes a great teacher: one who empowers
students to grow beyond their limitations.

Divyanshi (Counter-Side):
While Keating was undoubtedly inspirational, his methods had dangerous
consequences. Neil’s death illustrates how Keating’s push for rebellion did not
prepare his students to deal with real-life pressures. In Robert Frost’s Birches, the
poet describes climbing trees as a means of escape but always returning to reality.
Keating encouraged his students to climb without showing them how to safely come
back down. His inability to provide that balance led to his dismissal and left the
students vulnerable.

Isha (Pro-Side):
Even though Neil’s death was tragic, Keating’s influence went far beyond that. The
students learned to think for themselves and defy a system that stifled their
individuality. The final scene, where the students stand on their desks to honor
Keating, shows that his lessons stayed with them. Keating may not have played by
the rules, but he inspired free thinkers, and that’s the mark of a truly great teacher.

Devansh Kalra (Conclusion):

Ultimately, Keating’s success depends on how you define the role of a teacher.
If it's to inspire and challenge students, then he succeeded. But if it’s to guide
them safely through life’s complexities, he may have failed. Either way, his
lasting impact on his students can’t be denied.
Finally, we will hear a poem recited by Arsh, Santosh, and Divyansh Jeshwal.

Poem:

In shadows deep, they sought the light,

Where truth and verse would take their flight.
In halls where silence ruled the day,
The poets whispered words that stay.

A society of hearts so bold,

With dreams that could not fit the mold,
They seized the moment, dared to be,
Alive in thoughts, in poetry.

Upon their desks, they stood so tall,

To glimpse the world beyond the wall.
A bond was forged in secret’s grace,
With words that time cannot erase.

They wrote of life, of joy, of pain,

Of fleeting moments, brief as rain.
In every heart, a poet slept,
In every soul, their verses kept.

And though the world might silence cries,

Their echoes rise beneath the skies.
In whispers soft, their voices soar,
For Dead Poets, gone, but even more.

In courage found, they forged their path,

Defying doubt and facing wrath.
With every heartbeat, every tear,
They lived their truth, held passion near.

(Oh captain my captain line everybody speaking)

Thank you, everyone, for being a part of this presentation on Dead Poets
Society.