Flowers for Algernon

Front

What does it mean to 'pull a Charlie Gordon'?

Back

To 'pull a Charlie Gordon' refers to making a mistake or misunderstanding something due to a lack of intelligence or awareness, as experienced by the character Charlie in the story.

Front

Who is Charlie Gordon?

Back

Charlie Gordon is the main character in 'Flowers for Algernon', a man with an intellectual disability who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence.

Front

What is the significance of Algernon in the story?

Back

Algernon is a lab mouse who undergoes the same intelligence-enhancing operation as Charlie. His behavior and decline serve as a foreshadowing of Charlie's own fate.

Front

What does Charlie learn about the permanence of his intelligence?

Back

Charlie discovers that the operation is not permanent and that he will lose his intelligence at the same rate he gained it.

Front

What are Charlie's 'best friends' when his intelligence is at its peak?

Back

Charlie's 'best friends' at his highest intelligence are books and music, which he finds enriching and fulfilling.

Front

How does Charlie's perception of himself change throughout the story?

Back

Charlie's perception of himself evolves from seeing himself as limited and simple to experiencing a sense of superiority and then ultimately to despair as he realizes his intelligence will fade.

Front

What role does Miss Kinnian play in Charlie's life?

Back

Miss Kinnian is Charlie's teacher and love interest, who supports him throughout his journey and represents a connection to his past.

Front

What is the main theme of 'Flowers for Algernon'?

Back

The main theme is the exploration of intelligence and its impact on human relationships, identity, and the ethical implications of altering one's intelligence.

Front

How does Charlie's relationship with his coworkers change after the operation?

Back

Charlie's relationship with his coworkers shifts from being a target of ridicule to being respected, but ultimately back to isolation as he becomes aware of their true feelings.

Front

What does the story suggest about the nature of intelligence?

Back

The story suggests that intelligence is complex and that it does not necessarily equate to happiness or fulfillment.