Dead Poets Society
Dead Poets Society
In 1989, the film Dead Poets Society, directed by Peter Weir and written by Tom Schulman, is well received by the critics and the public, particularly students. The movie portrays the battle between two educational approaches --conservatism and progressivism-- and the triumph of the latter, in a New England elite secondary school. Conservatism is depicted in almost every aspect of the school's life: tradition, order, rules, discipline, authoritarianism, uniforms, memorizing, exams, and high respect for formalities and ceremonies. Progressivism is incarnated in the person of an English teacher (actor Robin Williams) who emphasizes creativity, freedom, critical thinking, individual expression, lived experience, imagination, self-fulfillment, and a romantic approach to life. As the film progresses, the tension between the 'subversive' teachings of the English teacher and the more conservative demands expressed by the principal and some parents escalates. The final clash occurs when the teacher is finally fired and the principal attempts to teach the students according to the old rules without much success. Students rebel by standing on their desks and saying farewell to the English teacher. The end of the story remains open, but the message against traditional education is made clear.
Cast:Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles, Gale Hansen, Allelon Ruggiero, James Waterston, Alexandra Powers, &Norman Lloyd
Links
Dead Poets Society
Carpe Diem: A Dead Poets Society Page
Aleksia's Dead Poets Society Page
Dead Poets Society
If you know any good site or have one. Email me with the addy and I will make a link to it.
