Part 1
Kesey offers a strong critique of society, government, and societal institutions-- that they would rather keep man "docile, unnoticed, and even "insane" rather than risk non-conformity, thinking for himself, and challenging authority. This is represented through the them of man vs. machine.
Questions: What are your thoughts on how Kesey presents this notion through Chief, McMurphy, and the other patients? Which specific moment in the text most aptly express the extended metaphor of man vs. machine?
Part 2- End
1. What are your thoughts on the portrayal of women in this text? Can we say that Kesey is perpetuating the stereotypes of women present in both society and in literature? Many critics deem this text as being "anti-female" do you agree, disagree, or "sit on the fence" regarding this idea?
2. The author Flanner O'Connor has written, " I am interested in making a good case for distortion because I am coming to believe that is the only way to make people see." Connect this concept to the text. How do the distortions contribute to the text as a whole?
3. Consider the character of McMurphy. Is he the ultimate hero? Why? Why not?
