1971. The
significance of a title such as The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is
so easy to discover. However, in other works (for example, Measure for
Measure) the full significance of the title becomes apparent to the
reader only gradually. Choose two works and show how the significance of
their respective titles is developed through the authors' use of
devices such as contrast, repetition, allusion, and point of view.
It
is true that some titles portray the inner context in a quite obvious
manner. What is "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" about? Oh, some boy
named Huckleberry Finn goes on some adventures; it is clear. However,
titles such as "One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest" does
not explain the anything about the plot when one looks at the cover of
the book. The novel portrays the idea of those who are disadvantaged and how they are treated in society. The novel looks into the lack of respect those with disorders experience and how it is not right because they are like any other human.
"One
Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" proves the idea of those with mental disorders and their treatment. The
protagonist, Randle McMurphy, is entered into the ward because he was
diagnosed as a psychopath after he was sentenced to serve time in
prison. McMurphy is the "one" who flies over the cuckoo's nest. This is
not apparent in the title, and the "cuckoo's nest" is the ward, itself. A
reader needs to piece these elements together in order to understand
the title of the book. Throughout the novel, things change throughout
the ward the moment McMurphy enters. He helps and hurts those around
him, but he is a major impact over all. Basically, the novel develops
themes of independence and confidence. There are many, many symbols that
create the image of the title, and McMurphy's impact is a major one.
This title takes some thinking and studying to truly see the themes
that it is portraying, but the hidden message inside of the title is quite prominent. "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" is a classic pieces of literature with a hidden message within its title.