Repression and Resistance

Throughout the play, Jim resists the hospital's attempts to dictate his morality. The doctors continually test Jim in an effort to establish his mental instability, yet he often proves himself to be keenly perceptive of their practices. On one occasion, when his psychiatrist asks him general questions about history and current events, Jim provides all the correct answers and argues that the questions prove nothing except "that institutional practice and honesty are not compatible." He adds, "we should be treated as individuals, but we're handled in categories, the same routine for everyone." Finally, he inquires whether the treatment the patients receive is due to the doctors' inexperience or lack of time. Yet, while Jim has clearly shown his mental acumen in his accurate assessment of hospital procedure, he does not win his freedom. When at the end of this session, Jim asks when he will be...