In a way Mr. Keating did play a role in the timeing of  Neil's act of suicide but unfortunately as greatly as we would like to point blame toward someone , I personally believe that Neil would have eventually made the same decision even without ever meeting Keating. The bravest student Keating had in my opinion would have to be Todd. Todd over came many fears through out the film and eventually was able to stand up to one of his biggest fears (The uppers) or the Dean of the school by standing up on the desk shouting "O Captain My Captain" in respect of Mr. Keating.  I do believe that Keating put the poetry book in Neils room mainly because I see Keating as a man who pushes students to go beyond just what they are told to do. Keating in my eyes attempts to give the boys a way of escape from the world and the Dead Poet Society for the boys is that escape.