One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest novel of the same name. The story is set in a psychiatric hospital and follows the rebellious Randle P. McMurphy as he clashes with the authoritarian Nurse Ratched, challenging the oppressive system and rallying the other patients.
Here are 10 literary devices used in the film, each with two specific examples:
Metaphor
Movie Scene Device Example McMurphy’s arrival at the hospital McMurphy represents freedom and rebellion against the oppressive system (Nurse Ratched and the hospital). Group therapy sessions The hospital is a microcosm of society, reflecting larger societal issues of control and conformity.
Symbolism
Movie Scene Device Example Chief Bromden’s fog The fog symbolizes Chief’s mental confusion and lack of clarity. The broken window Represents McMurphy’s attempt to break free from the oppressive environment.
Irony
Movie Scene Device Example McMurphy’s feigned insanity McMurphy pretends to be insane to avoid prison labor but finds the hospital more oppressive. Nurse Ratched’s ‘therapeutic’ control Nurse Ratched claims to help patients but uses her power to manipulate and oppress them.
Foreshadowing
Movie Scene Device Example Electroshock therapy room Early glimpses of the electroshock therapy room hint at its later use on McMurphy. Chief Bromden’s strength Hints of Chief’s physical strength foreshadow his eventual act of rebellion.
Allegory
Movie Scene Device Example McMurphy’s battle with Nurse Ratched Represents the individual’s struggle against oppressive institutions. The fishing trip Symbolizes the fleeting moments of freedom and normalcy for the patients.
Motif
Movie Scene Device Example The music in the ward Music is used to control and manipulate the patients’ environment and mood . Card games Represent the power dynamics and strategic maneuvering between McMurphy and Nurse Ratched.
Juxtaposition
Movie Scene Device Example McMurphy’s energetic personality vs. the subdued patients Highlights the contrast between rebellion and conformity. The cold, sterile hospital vs. the vibrant, chaotic fishing trip Emphasizes the difference between oppression and freedom.
Satire
Movie Scene Device Example McMurphy’s mockery of hospital rules Critiques the absurdity and rigidity of institutional systems. The group therapy sessions Satirize the ineffectiveness and cruelty of supposed therapeutic practices.
Allusion
Movie Scene Device Example McMurphy as a Christ figure His sacrifice for the patients echoes religious themes of martyrdom. References to Native American culture Through Chief Bromden, highlighting cultural and historical issues.
Flashback
Movie Scene Device Example Chief Bromden’s memories of his father Provides background on Chief’s mental state and distrust of authority. McMurphy’s recounting of past experiences Offers insight into his character and motivations.
Character Studies
Device Explanation McMurphy Metaphor McMurphy as a symbol of rebellion against oppressive systems. Irony His feigned insanity leading to genuine suffering. Nurse Ratched Symbolism Represents authoritarian control and manipulation. Juxtaposition Her calm demeanor contrasts with her cruel actions. Chief Bromden Metaphor His foggy mental state representing confusion and disconnection. Allegory His journey symbolizes breaking free from oppression. Billy Bibbit Motif His stutter as a recurring sign of his deep-seated anxieties. Irony His tragic end despite the moments of bravery inspired by McMurphy.
Character Dynamics
Character Dynamics Explanation McMurphy & Nurse Ratched Their constant power struggle drives the narrative , symbolizing the clash between individuality and institutional control. McMurphy & Chief Bromden Their evolving relationship highlights themes of friendship, trust, and liberation. Nurse Ratched & the Patients Her manipulation and control over the patients underscore the theme of power and its abuse.
Here are major themes and how literary devices highlight these themes:
Rebellion vs. Conformity
Device Explanation Symbolism McMurphy’s actions symbolize rebellion against oppressive systems. Irony McMurphy’s feigned insanity leading to real punishment illustrates the dangers of challenging authority.
Power and Control
Device Explanation Juxtaposition The contrasting behaviors of Nurse Ratched and McMurphy underscore the theme of control versus freedom. Satire The absurdity of the hospital’s rules critiques the misuse of power.
Freedom and Oppression
Device Explanation Allegory The fishing trip as a brief escape from the hospital’s oppression. Metaphor The hospital as a microcosm of societal control and oppression.
Visual and Sound Techniques
Literary Device Technique Explanation Symbolism Lighting Use of lighting to emphasize the oppressive atmosphere of the hospital. Irony Sound design Contrasting cheerful music with dark, oppressive scenes to highlight the irony . Juxtaposition Camera angles Close-ups of patients’ faces juxtaposed with wide shots of the sterile hospital environment.
Scene Selection and Breakdown
Scene 1: McMurphy’s Arrival Link to scene
Breakdown: McMurphy’s entrance disrupts the hospital’s routine, setting the stage for his rebellious influence.
Scene 2: The Fishing Trip Link to scene
Breakdown: A moment of freedom and normalcy for the patients, symbolizing the possibility of escape from oppression.
Scene 3: Electroshock Therapy Link to scene
Breakdown: Highlights the brutality of the hospital’s methods and McMurphy’s resilience.
To test your understanding of the literary devices used in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
Interactive Multiple Choice Quiz
What does the fog symbolize in Chief Bromden’s experience?
A) Clarity
B) Confusion
C) Joy
D) Freedom
How does the fishing trip serve as a literary device?
A) It symbolizes oppression.
B) It represents a moment of freedom.
C) It showcases Nurse Ratched’s power.
D) It highlights the hospital’s rules.
What literary device is used to contrast Nurse Ratched’s demeanor with her actions?
How does the film use lighting to enhance the theme of oppression?
A) By highlighting cheerful scenes.
B) By creating a dark, sterile atmosphere .
C) By emphasizing natural light.
D) By using bright, colorful lights.
What does McMurphy symbolize in the film?
A) Authority
B) Conformity
C) Rebellion
D) Fear
Answer Key: 1-B, 2-B, 3-C, 4-B, 5-C
