Content Warning: This book contains references to death by suicide and sexual assault, and uses outdated and culturally appropriative terminology that is reproduced only in direct quotes. 

The novel begins at Welton Academy, an isolated and historic private school for boys in the hills of Vermont, at a start-of-term ceremony for students and their parents. It is a posh affair, with bagpipers accompanying the rituals that mark the beginning of the school year. One group of boys carries in flags, each one highlighting one of Welton’s four pillars: “‘Tradition,’ ‘Honor,’ ‘Discipline,’ ‘Excellence’” (2). Headmaster Nolan, an old, distinguished man, points to another old man in long flowing robes who has lit a candle. He presents this as “The light of knowledge” (2). He addresses the crowd, welcoming them to Welton.

Welton, he tells the expectant parents and students, has a history of producing Ivy League-bound scholars. Those who survive Welton’s rigorous curriculum tend to excel in their college years and into their careers. They strive for perfection and uniformity; there are certain rules and social graces of this world that the boys must learn, and they will learn them at Welton.

Mr. Keating is the new English teacher at Welton.