Summary of Flowers for Algernon

Summary of Flowers for Algernon

• Charlie Gordon, a man with intellectual disability (IQ 68), undergoes an experimental intelligence enhancement surgery.
• The surgery mirrors a similar procedure on Algernon, a lab mouse, who initially shows marked improvement in learning and problem-solving.
• Charlie's intelligence significantly increases after the surgery, leading him to grapple with complex ideas and emotions.
• He gains awareness of past mistreatment due to his disability; he develops complex thoughts and emotions.
• Charlie surpasses the intellect of the scientists (Dr. Strauss and Professor Nemur) conducting the experiment.
• Charlie's intellectual peak is not permanent. The experimental surgery has temporary effects.
• Charlie observes and predicts the decline of his counterpart, Algernon.
• As Algernon dies, Charlie's intelligence deteriorates and he returns to his original mental state.
• To avoid pity, Charlie leaves New York. He requests flowers be placed on Algernon's grave.

Main Characters

• Charlie Gordon: The protagonist, who undergoes an intelligent enhancement procedure, initially improving and then declining.
• Algernon: A lab mouse who undergoes the same procedure as Charlie; his initial improvement is followed by deterioration and ultimate death. This is pivotal in Charlie's story.
• Dr. Strauss: A scientist involved in the procedure, more empathetic toward Charlie.
• Professor Nemur: The lead scientist, prioritizing scientific advancement over Charlie's well-being.
• Alice Kinnian: Charlie's teacher, who motivates Charlie’s participation in the experiment and later becomes romantically involved.
• Fay Lillman: A free-spirited artist who becomes romantically involved with Charlie during his intellectual peak.
• Rose Gordon: Charlie's mother, showcasing an unsupportive view of Charlie due to his disability.
• Matt Gordon: Charlie's father, embodying more compassion but unable to challenge Rose's outlook on Charlie.
• Norma Gordon: Charlie's sister, facing similar struggles in their relationship before reconciling.

Themes

• The story explores ethical concerns regarding human experimentation and the treatment of individuals with disabilities.
• The book delves into the themes of intellectual growth, the limitations of science, and the human experience.

This quiz covers the key events and themes from the novel Flowers for Algernon. It explores Charlie Gordon's journey through an experimental surgery that enhances his intelligence, his emotional growth, and the eventual decline of both his and Algernon's intellect. Test your understanding of the characters and significant plot points.