“Dead Poets Society” is a film that has resonated with audiences for decades, offering a blend of inspiration, humor, and poignant lessons. The movie, directed by Peter Weir and released in 1989, is based on the novel “The Dead Poets Society” by Robert B. Pinsky. It revolves around a group of students at a prestigious prep school who find their lives transformed through the teachings of an unconventional English teacher, Mr. Keating.
One of the film’s most memorable aspects is its exploration of literature and its power to inspire and challenge the status quo. Throughout the movie, Mr. Keating imparts wisdom not only through his teachings but also through the use of English proverbs, which have stood the test of time. In this article, we will delve into some of these timeless proverbs and explore their significance within the context of “Dead Poets Society.”
Proverb 1: “Carpe Diem” – Seize the Day
One of the most famous lines from the film is delivered by Mr. Keating himself: “Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” This line encapsulates the essence of the proverb “Carpe Diem,” which originates from Latin and translates to “seize the day.” In the film, this proverb serves as a call to action for the students to live life to the fullest and not be confined by the expectations of others.
Example in the Film:
In one of the movie’s most iconic scenes, Mr. Keating instructs his students to stand on their desks, symbolizing their ability to break free from societal norms and embrace their individuality. This act is a direct application of the “Carpe Diem” philosophy, urging the students to make the most of their time and not to let it slip by without making a mark on the world.
Proverb 2: “When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do” – Adapt to Your Surroundings
Another proverb that Mr. Keating references is “When in Rome, do as the Romans do,” which advises individuals to adapt to the customs of the place they are in. In the film, this proverb is used to encourage the students to fit in with their peers and learn from their experiences, even if it means conforming temporarily.
Example in the Film:
When Mr. Keating introduces the students to the concept of acting, he tells them to “act as if you were at a play.” By doing so, they can learn to embrace their emotions and express themselves freely. This act of temporary conformity allows them to explore their creativity and understand the importance of adapting to different circumstances.
Proverb 3: “The Early Bird Catches the Worm” – Be Proactive
The proverb “The early bird catches the worm” is often used to encourage people to be proactive and seize opportunities before they are gone. In “Dead Poets Society,” this proverb serves as a reminder to the students that they should take advantage of the opportunities presented to them and not wait for life to come to them.
Example in the Film:
Mr. Keating emphasizes the importance of acting on one’s passions and pursuing them wholeheartedly. When he encourages the students to read poetry and to explore their interests, he is essentially reminding them to be proactive in their lives and to not wait for others to recognize their talents.
Proverb 4: “You Can Lead a Horse to Water, But You Can’t Make It Drink” – Encourage, Don’t Force
This proverb, which suggests that you can only guide others to make their own decisions, is a recurring theme in “Dead Poets Society.” Mr. Keating believes in empowering his students to make choices for themselves, rather than pushing them in a certain direction.
Example in the Film:
When Mr. Keating teaches his students about the power of poetry, he emphasizes that they must find their own passion, rather than being told what to love. This approach allows the students to discover their true selves and to make choices that are meaningful to them.
Conclusion
“Dead Poets Society” is a film that not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons through the use of English proverbs. These proverbs serve as a reminder to the audience that the wisdom contained within them is timeless and applicable to all aspects of life. By exploring these proverbs within the context of the film, we can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages that make “Dead Poets Society” a classic piece of cinema.