An easy way to write an essay is to remember these simple steps. This way you wont forget to include any information:
Here are some common directional terms that you will need to know when answering analysing an essay question:
| Give the main points, usually in a sensible order | |
| Offer an explanation of how/why something happened | |
| Give a clear account of what happened and offer reasons for it happening | |
| Give points for and against, based on evidence, and draw a conclusion from points presented | |
| Point out similarities based on evidence (some contrast may also need to be made) | |
| Stress differences based on evidence (some comparison may also need to be made) | |
| Present clearly and concisely | |
| Express a personal opinion based on evidence |
Option C: (20 Marks)
Weir's chief concern was to get across to the viewer the theme of freedom and conformity and the way that the choices we make dictate the life we lead.
This theme is introduced in the opening scene of a posh preparatory school, Welton Academy in 1959. The close up of the boys in their starched uniforms, the ceremony involving the 'light of knowledge' and the four pillars, 'Tradition, honour, discipline, excellence' all symbolise the conformity of this strait laced school. The boys chant in unison and one gets the distinct feeling that things are about to change with the introduction of Mr Keating.
Sure enough, through Keating's lessons we see a radical new teaching method, contrasted by shots of other lessons such as Latin and Chemistry taught in a dull, boring manner.
Keating's lessons are filled with obscure things, such as ripping out pages of textbooks and jumping on desks to 'see things from another prospective.' Keating inspires the boys to 'Maintain thoughts and beliefs in the face of conformity' and to 'contribute a verse' to life.
Symbolism also plays a part in the revelation of this theme, with the close up of the geese spreading their wings and flying, contrasted to a circular pan of the boys crowding the staircase as if trapped. This in addition to the reference to time, the clock tower and the bells create the feeling of a institution.
Perhaps the best illustration of the need for freedom is shown in Neil, and impressionable boy, a budding actor, trapped in a school and a life that does not cater for his abilities. His strict and domineering father is unwilling to tolerate anything but a doctor as a son and instructs Neil "don't you ever dispute me in public".
Through Mr Keating's inspiring words, Neil takes part in a play against his father's wishes. The play, "A Midsummer Night's Dream", is symbolic of Neil's freedom, it is summer and he is doing what he wants. As Keating said earlier, "Tis only in their dreams that man is truly free". But this dream can not last and Neil's father consequently finds out and lays down the law.
In Neil's suicide scene, he is seen to be in a dream-like trance, still wearing his crown of thorns, creating a Jesus-like imagery. The eerie music and use of shadows on the wall add to the ominous mood of the scene.
When his father runs into the room and cries in slow motion "Oh my son", we can't help but feel 'what a waste'. But this is all part of Peter Weir's purpose, to prove that freedom is important to us all and that we should never take it for granted. In Mr Keating's despair, we are granted a close-up of the Dead Poets Society book and view the last sentence, "And not, when I come to die, discover that I had not lived". This sums up the intention of this movie, to live life to the fullest.
Although it is not a happy ending, Keating's departure is bittersweet. He has taught the boys an important life-lesson that they will never forget and his purpose has been fulfilled.
Mark - 16/20