STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Explain the effectiveness and the problems of Chief Bromden as the narrator of the novel.

2. What is the significance of the title "One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest"?

3. How does Kesey use the setting of the novel to reflect the repressive forces of society?

4. All of the patients as a group serve as protagonists. Who is the real protagonist of the novel and why? Fully justify your answer.

5. What are the different Themes Kesey touches upon in the novel?

6. Explain the meaning of three of the recurring symbols in the novel.

7. In what way does McMurphy fit his role as a Christ figure? Is he a conventional hero?

8. Discuss the ways in which Kesey alludes to Melville's Moby Dick.

9. Compare and contrast the characters of Chief Bromden and McMurphy.

10. Discuss Nurse Ratched as a symbol and as a character.

11. How does Kesey explore other modes of consciousness in this book? To what extent do Chief Bromden's visions hamper or reinforce the Themes of the novel?

12. In what way are the references to machines related to the characters of the novel?

13. Does the Chief actually escape or is he brought back? Explain your answer.

14. What is the role of women in the novel?

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