In 1961, Michel Foucault published 'Madness and Civilization', a groundbreaking work that traced the historical evolution of the concept of madness and its societal implications. Foucault analyzed how power dynamics and knowledge shaped the treatment and perception of the mentally ill, critiquing the exclusionary practices of institutions. His work has had a profound impact on psychology, sociology, and cultural studies, prompting reevaluation of how society defines and treats mental health.

Michel Foucault's publication of 'Madness and Civilization' in 1961 profoundly impacted late 20th-century poetry by encouraging poets to interrogate societal norms surrounding sanity and deviance. This critical perspective fostered a wave of politically charged poetry that challenged institutional power and explored the complexities of mental health.