Dreams: everyone's got 'em.
In Dead Poets Society, though, it seems like everyone has the same dream: do well, graduate, go to a good college, have a career as a lawyer or doctor.
At least, that's what it initially seems like. Over time, we see that some of the students have hopes and dreams that don't really fit in with the plans that their family and faculty members have for them. And that's when things get interesting.
Questions about Dreams, Hopes, and Plans
- How does (or doesn't) Welton support the plans and dreams of its students?
- What does Neil really dream of doing with his life? How does he determine this dream?
- Why is Todd skeptical of Neil's plans? Does it have anything to do with his own dreams? What does Mr. McAllister think about encouraging students to dream about their future? Does Mr. Perry agree? How does this affect Neil's fate?
Chew on This
Take a peek at these thesis statements. Agree or disagree?
Most of the boys don't alter their plans for the future; only Neil decides to pursue a different path.
Mr. McAllister has a point: not everyone can be successful at their dreams.