conformity, displayed immediately within the opening scene of Dead Poets Society

In the opening scene of Peter Weir’s 1989 film Dead Poets Society, the respected, stern dean and traditional environment exude a sense of conformity at the conservative and aristocratic Welton Academy. The mural presented at the opening of the scene depicts young men clothed in traditional colonial attire. Then, the camera pans to two young boys dressed in clothing that reflects the mural, which suggests that the school’s values are very strict and traditional. As the photographer attempts to capture the perfect picture of the two young boys, others in the room mingle quietly amongst themselves; moments before exiting the room, the dean instructs the children to “quiet down.” His statement proves to be ironic and humorous because those who were socializing were not even making much noise. In fact, throughout the scene, even the slightest of noises are heard: the whispers between adults, the shutter of the camera, as well as the soft hiss the candle makes as it is being lit. Each of the boys that are carrying the four pillars (tradition, honor, discipline, and excellence) dress identically, which conveys a sense of conformity and convention; the trend continues as the group moves into the chapel. Upon the dean’s command, each boy rises in unison to recite the four pillars, or as insinuated by the dean, the keys to success. The traditions and expectations that are upheld at Welton Academy lead to the obvious observation that only conformity leads to success in the institution.