One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest Essay

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One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey is a book that has been being challenged since 1962. It has been challenged so much because it shows many examples of criminal activity, sex, and different views of society that makes people feel uncomfortable. It has been a conflict of interest for many years whether or not this book should be read in school. This book should be read in highschools because it addresses issues of the modern day society in a way with lessons to be learned Starting in the 1970’s, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Was challenged many times with specifically harsh criticism from parents. According to an article posted by the LA Times, California recently questioned the book after a mother convinced over 150 fellow …show more content…
Although the book can be looked at in a literal way, there is an important lesson to be learned; not only can someone be smothered by an enemy, anyone can also overcome obstacles with confidence and help. A bit further into the book, the patients of the psych ward experience a huge change after McMurphy is admitted. In chapter five, Harding describes the dehumanization the patients feel in the ward by comparing them to, “Desperate, frightened, ineffectual little rabbits” (Kesey 37). By the end of the book , Harding says they have been re-taught to be men. This novel not only demonstrates the vulnerability of the mind, but it also teaches that the right role models can teach anyone how to be self sufficient. According to Banned Book Awareness, in 1974, residents of a small town in Ohio sued to have this book removed from the public school curriculum. throughout the whole book, there are examples of sexual desires and sexual acts based on them. The town’s residents claimed that the book was pornographic. Even though sex is present in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, it isn't the main focus, and it isn't over glorified either.