Authority And The Individual In Dead Poet's Society

The complex relationship between the authority and the individual within a society, is displayed when individuals must abide the rules and guidelines, without losing their personal identity. Individualism is a trip of self-discovery and individual growth that has a lasting impact on the individual’s future. Authority acts as a guide, but shouldn’t be accepted at the expense of finding one’s individuality. However, if the balance between the two groups are disrupted, conflict arises, resulting in a rebellious dispute as seen in Suzanne Collin’s, “The Hunger Games” trilogy. When individuals who refuse to conform to society, but to their personal beliefs and convictions, they possess certain qualities that allow them to be heard over the voices of authority. This concept is …show more content…
Individuals that are able to develop their personal identity under the guidance of authority, employ self-discovery that ultimately fuels their individual growth. As individualism involves the representation of courage and personal beliefs, the nature of non-conforming to authority is developed through their moral compass. This concept is exemplified through “Dead Poet’s Society”, where there’s a clash between Neil’s father controlling his son’s life, dictating his every move. Despite his efforts, Neil experiences freedom by performing in a play against his father’s desires. A high angle camera shot pointing towards Mr Perry, reveals Neil’s efforts to stand up against his father, but he is unable to communicate his opinions towards his tyrannical, traditionalistic figure. The foreshadowing of continuing a dreary life, impacts Neil as he decides the only way to regain control of his life is to take his own. The symbolism of wearing a crown of thorns allude to the notion of