One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest Practice Test

Why was McMurphy transferred to the ward?

Because he was sick. To be closer to family in town. To join a different ward. He said he requested to be transferred to the hospital to escape the drudgery of the Pendleton Work Farm, and that life seemed easier at the ward.

Correct Answer:

He said he requested to be transferred to the hospital to escape the drudgery of the Pendleton Work Farm, and that life seemed easier at the ward.

Explanation:

The idea being tested is why McMurphy chooses to move to the hospital ward—the motivation behind his transfer. He asks to be moved to the hospital rather than staying on the Pendleton Work Farm because he wants to escape the grind and hard labor of the farm. He even suggests that life in the ward would be easier, which shows his practical, somewhat rebellious approach to surviving within the system. This moment highlights his tendency to manipulate the situation to his advantage and sets up the power dynamic with Nurse Ratched. The other reasons don’t fit the scene: he isn’t transferring due to illness, nor to be closer to family, and it isn’t merely about joining a different ward—it's about avoiding the farm’s drudgery by choosing the hospital environment.

Access more questions from this quiz

Continue to One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest Practice Test for more practice questions and the full quiz experience.

Access More Questions