Final answer:
In 'Dead Poets Society', Neal's aspiration to become an actor is what he desires but is likely to be disapproved of by his father, who has different expectations for his career. This conflict of interest highlights the common struggle between pursuing personal passions and meeting the expectations of others, a situation that many students can relate to.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Dead Poets Society, Neal wants to pursue a career in acting, which he is passionate about. However, this desire directly conflicts with his father's expectations, who would most likely disapprove of Neal's aspiration to become an actor. The father's traditional views on success and career paths are at odds with Neal's dreams, leading to a significant point of tension in the story.
Many students in college today face similar dilemmas, having to choose between following their passion or adhering to the career expectations set by others, such as their parents. This theme is also explored with historical figures like Edwin Hubble, whose father wanted him to become a lawyer instead of an astronomer. Hubble's persistence and eventual success in astronomy serve as an inspirational example of following one's passion despite external pressures.
Neal's situation in Dead Poets Society exemplifies the universal struggle between personal desires and familial expectations, a topic that resonates with many viewers and readers who experience the challenge of aligning their own ambitions with those of their parents or society.