One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest Conformity Analysis

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“Conformity ensures an individual’s relationship with the institution… rebellion inevitably complicates it”. The enigmatic and elusive nature of the institution is designed to suppress individuality and encourage conformity, due to the inherent tension present between the inflexible institution and the individual. The harmonious or orderly functioning of society is dependent upon the cooperation of all the parts that seek to have certain needs and requirements met. This social contract entails the reduction in individual freedom in return for the provision of individual needs, such as security. Through an exploration of the novel One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s nest, Ken Kesey’s authorial intention give the responder an insight into the individual’s…show more content…
The inherent complexities prevalent in an institution are seen in its ability to consume an individual’s persona and filter it in order to meet societal expectations. Susan Collins uses Katniss, the titular character of the film, as an instrument to represent the identity-altering aspects of the institution. And more deeply, how an individual can sometimes be forced upon the institution in order to alleviate the suffering they experience at the hands of society. Similar to Chief Bromden in his reliance upon the fog to free himself from Nurse Ratched’s regime, the young Katniss reluctantly embraces the institution as a means to detach herself from the overbearing facets of her society. When taking part in the interviews before the hunger games, Katniss battles with maintaining her identity whilst struggling to control an appealing façade, to keep a healthy relationship with the institution in order for her success in the Games. The way in which Katniss exclaims, “No one will forget me. Not my look, not my name. Katniss. The girl who was on fire.” Illustrates how the games have altered her in order to assimilate in society, yet consequently stripped her of her identity and values as she becomes what the institution determines her to be. This correlates with

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