Saturday, April 14, 2012

4 Discussion Q's over Cuckoo's Nest

1.) How does McMurphy symbolize a Christ figure?
McMurphy, throughout the story, displays acts of defiance, temptation, and sacrifice. He is completely open about his purpose and his motivations. Towards the end of the book McMurphy realizes that he can make the ultimate sacrifice for the group and be their "savior" from the Ward.

2.) At what point does McMurphy realize that it is he that can save everyone?
There is no distinct point of realization for McMurphy of this information. He comes to the realization that he can be the Savior for the group slowly and then this idea takes root in his mind and thats how he does his magic.

3.) Why does McMurphy make such a large sacrifice for the group?
From what I see, McMurphy has nothing to lose and he was already trying to help these people escape from the beginning. He made this ultimate sacrifice so that the others could take their chances and escape.

4.) What does "the fog" symbolize?
To me the fog symbolizes the Big Nurse's control over the group. Throughout the story, Chief sees the fog when the Big Nurse has control. When McMurphy steps in and disrupts the Nurse's power, the fog lifts and it is no longer there.