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Allusions In One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest

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It’s common for some works of literature to improve upon their writing by sustained allusions to myths, the bible, or other literature references. In “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, Ken Kesey makes use of frequent allusions from the bible. Because of this, McMurphy, the main character, is painted as a Christ-like figure. This works by accenting McMurphy’s influence and leadership within the accounted for patients at the mental institute. Throughout the story, it is clear that McMurphy has a spirit about him that lightens even the darkest of places, as in the book Bromden says that it’s “the first time he’s heard anyone laugh in years”; which further portrays his “spirit”. In addition to this, Kesey makes a biblical reference to the

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