Mr Keating is a complex character. He used to be a student at Welton himself, but seems to have developed a teaching style and life philosophy fundamentally opposed to Welton's ideals and principles.
Neil is a all-around happy-faced character fascinated with Mr Keating's ideas and methods. His relationship to his father, however, is problematic: he is intimidated by his compulsory and unaccepting behaviour.
When Keating's teaching methods intrigue the boys (and especially: Neil) and make them delve into poetry and the fine arts, he seems to have triggered something deep within them. The newfound passion clashes with reality at Welton and - perhaps even more significantly - with the ideas of the students' parents.
In a tragic turn of events, Neil commits suicide. Mr Keating appears to be paralysed by this and gives up his idea of teaching the boys about poetry.
While Todd blatantly exclaims that "Mr Perry killed Neil", the school fires Keating, apparently blaming him for having "misguided" his student.
Task: Discuss: Who is to blame for Neil's death? Don't be quick with your judgement, but assess different answers before you decide.
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