1. THEMES

2.  The final assessment for One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest is a group presentation.  Each group will choose a theme from the novel.  Each group will create a Prezi presentation to demonstrate how the theme connects to the novel as well as how it connects to “real life.”  Each group will come up with questions which will help the class think in depth about the themes.  More information forthcoming!!!

3. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=81NeQJWG YJY “This sounds real. I realize all of a sudden it’s the first laugh I’ve heard in years” (12). “’…but the rest of you are even scared to open up and laugh…Man, when you lose your laugh you lose your footing’” (70). How does McMurphy bring laughter back into the ward? Why is this so important to the patients? To the novel?

4. “’Don’t overlook the possibility that this man might be feigning psychosis to escape the drudgery of the work farm’.” “’Doctor…do I look like a sane man?’” (47). What does it mean to be sane? Insane? Can these terms be defined by characters in the novel?

5. “Now he’s nailed against the wall in the same condition they lifted him off the table for the last time, in the same shape, arms out, palms cupped, with the same horror on his face” (16). “You are strapped to a table, shaped, ironically, like a cross, with a crown of electric sparks in place of thorns” (69). “I believe if he were sent to Disturbed now it would be exactly what the patients would expect. He would be a martyr to them” (157). The fishing trip…coming in part 3. What is the symbolism of the cross? What is a martyr? How might McMurphy be a Christ figure?

6. Are people inherently good or evil? Does McMurphy have good/evil intentions? Does the nurse have good/evil intentions? What is the point of the Group Therapy sessions? Are they used for good/evil?

7. “…I know she’s just waiting to get enough evidence to have some guy reconditioned at the Main Building…” (15). “The Big Nurse recognizes this fear and knows how to put it to use…” (18). “…everyone…must follow the rules” (25). “The Big nurse tends to get real put out if something keeps her outfit from running like a smooth, accurate, precision-made machine” (28). “Year by year she accumulates her ideal staff…That’s her doctor” (29). What ultimately causes the men to feel free? Why choose a woman to be in control of the ward? (matriarchy) How does McMurphy gain control? Does this lead to freedom? Is the tight schedule of the ward/control of the patients like society?

8. Individuality vs. Conformity Physical vs. Moral Courage/Strength (SIZE symbolism) The Combine/Machines Choices