A LITERARY CRITICISM OF THE

DEAD POETS SOCIETY THROUGH

THE LENS OF
READERS-RESPONSE APPROACH

A WRITTEN WORK IN ENGLISH 10

Submitted by:

Fronda, Antoine Isaiah R.

Aradanas, Dylan S.

Submitted to:

Ms. Vanessa P. Bactol

Subject Teacher
I. THE READERS-RESPONSE APPROACH

Among the branches of literary criticism, the readers-response approach suggests that the meaning of a
text is not solely based on the author’s intentions but on the interaction with the readers. It emphasizes the
role of the readers in interpreting and constructing meanings from a text, showing the subjective concept
of making judgments and the importance of the reader’s experiences and cultural background. This also
concludes that multiple readers may have different valid interpretations of a single literary work, not just
to consider it all “correct” interpretations but to explore diverse perspectives.

II. READERS-RESPONSE CRITICISM OF THE MOVIE THE DEAD POETS SOCIETY

Here are some brief context from the story:

Welton Academy manifests conformity in the school's culture, reflected in the strict rules and
expectations imposed upon the students. The classes were boring not until Mr. Keating was introduced
and encouraged the students to challenge conformity and embrace individuality through his teachings. His
mentorship led the 6 students to break free from the restraints of societal expectations and pursue their
passion. Neil Perry is one of these students who dreamed of being an actor and after having the
opportunity to participate in their school play, he grabbed it and followed his heart. However, his father
disapproved because he expected Neil to be a doctor and not a low-paying actor. Neil’s passion for acting
has been taken away from him by his father and circumstances urged him to take his own life. The tragic
consequences were blamed on Mr. Keating, who had just encouraged Neil to explore his real beauty and
passion for life.

Purpose of the movie

The film shows the idea of embracing uniqueness as a means of exploring our identities and expressing
ourselves authentically. A reminder for us to remain true to one's beliefs, even in the face of opposition
such as people’s expectations or societal and academic pressures. It also encourages audiences to pursue
their passions with courage and seizes life's opportunities. Keating’s teachings reconcile the power of
education in shaping one’s personality and contributing to social change. Furthermore, the death of Neil
Perry serves as an awareness of suicide prevention and an approach that love are something we live for.

In short, the purpose of the movie is to inspire viewers to embrace individuality, challenge existing
norms, and develop a tool such as knowledge that corresponds to the ultimate transformation despite the
obstacles.
Message of the movie

In order to be well-behaved or to fit into society’s expectations, school tells us that we need to be
aligned with the conformity of the system which is true and just but also denies the beauty of life where
we can chase our true desires and passion. Complying with the school’s culture, our society portrays the
same expectations but in a good way, John Keating perceived and influenced education as a powerful tool
to shape our dreams that we can pass on with the essence of passion and commitment to it. Indeed,
education is transformative and precious as life once we learn to believe in ourselves. Mr.Keating leaves
an ultimate lesson for us; “carpe diem” which means to seize the day. Meanwhile, Neil's story serves as a
powerful reminder of the importance of pursuing one's passion and staying true to oneself, even in the
face of adversity. Moreover, it defines that life is unpredictable so we have to enjoy it while we have the
chance. To sum up, the message of the movie is that reality is cruel to dreams but it cannot stop us from
living boldly, authentically, and with a sense of purpose.

The quality of the movie

Dead Poets Society explores relevance within its theme that conveys the crucial stage in the life of
teenagers like me. It is relatable and something that offers transformation to its viewers. I’m moved and
influenced by the drama in this film because it is very realistic, unlike other inspirational movies that
often are predictable or cheesy. Paying attention to the structure, the story's message is more likely subtle
or indirectly displayed which requires critical decoding. Additionally, how the words they favored to use
erupt the emotions of the viewers giving them the urge to understand what it means by observing.
Effective imagery is also observed in the movie which generates profound and sensational approaches
with the viewers. For instance, the setting is the winter season which contributes a more dramatic
experience to the set making it sad and tragic. Ultimately, the ways that the script was written to inspire its
audience are exceptional and symbolic which is why this film is binge-worthy.