Through Chief Bromden's Murky Lens: Deconstructing Sanity in One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest

Dhuha Abdulkadhim Neamah Al-Rubaye

Abstract: The novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," which was written by Ken Kesey and published in 1962, continues to be a powerful investigation into the complexity of mental illness, as well as the influence that institutions exert over individuals. The novel encourages us to re-examine the very idea of sane through the eyes of Chief Bromden, the seemingly quiet behemoth. While numerous analyses dissect the power dynamics and rebellion within the psychiatric unit, this article gives a distinct perspective via the lens of Chief Bromden. Through the investigation of his fractured story and warped views, a horrifying reality arises, in which the "sane" staff, lead by Nurse Ratched, exemplify a twisted type of craziness. Meanwhile, the patients who are branded "crazy" by the hospital, cling to shreds of human authenticity and sanity.

Keywords: Ken Kesey, Cuckoo?s Nest, Chief Bromden, Murky, Sanity, Crazy, Mental Illness