How we cite our quotes: Citations follow this format: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
The chaplain…had placed himself a bit to one side, and the captain's bars on the tab of his shift collar were all the insignia Yossarian could see. Yossarian had no idea who he was and just took it for granted that he was either another doctor or another madman. (1.38)
Yossarian believes everyone at the ward falls into two categories – doctor or madman. There is no other category. Because the doctors are stupid and incompetent, this leaves absolutely no room in which human reason and wisdom can exist. Men are either stupid or mad, according to Yossarian.
Quote #5
"Be careful in the other wards, Father," Yossarian warned. "That's where they keep the mental cases. They're filled with lunatics…
"I'm dead serious about those other wards," Yossarian continued grimly. M.P.s won't protect you, because they're the craziest of all. I'd go with you myself, but I'm scared stiff. Insanity is contagious. This is the only sane ward in the whole hospital. This is probably the only sane ward in the whole world, for that matter." (1.89)
Yossarian claims madness is like a disease – infectious to all in its proximity. We know that this claim is an exaggeration because one does not catch madness just from knowing a mad person.
Quote #6
"Can I do anything at all to help you?" the chaplain asked.
Yossarian shook his head, still grinning. "No, I'm sorry. I have everything I need and I'm quite comfortable. In fact, I'm not even sick." "That's good." (1.75-77)
The chaplain misses the irony. If Yossarian is not sick, he shouldn't be in the hospital. If he's well, he should be out on active duty.