Illustration of Nurse Ratched

One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

by Ken Kesey

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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

The doctor in "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" is weak and easily manipulated, allowing Nurse Ratched to control him and the ward. He is described as spineless and potentially addicted to drugs,...

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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

In "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," a chicken represents the patients who attack each other in group therapy, akin to chickens in a "pecking party." McMurphy suggests these chickens are victims of...

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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

Nurse Ratched deliberately misnames McMurphy as "McMurry" to assert her dominance and control over the patients by undermining his identity. This tactic is part of her strategy to erode McMurphy's...

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One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

In "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," animals symbolize characters to highlight societal dynamics within the hospital. The caretakers are likened to dogs hunting patients, while Nurse Ratched is a...

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