Charlie Gordon's Characterization In Flowers For Algernon By Daniel Keyes

The short story “Flowers for Algernon” written by Daniel Keyes tells the story of Charlie Gordon, a thirty-seven-year-old intellectually disabled man. He undergoes a life-changing operation that will triple his intelligence. Throughout the story, we get to know in depth of Charlie 's characteristics.
One of the many tests Charlie is given is the Thematic Apperception test which is a test where a person is instructed to make up a story based on a specific picture. Instead of doing so he says, “How can you tell storys about pepul you never met. I said why shud I make up lies.” His inability to pass this test indicates his honesty since he refused to lie about the people in the picture. Charlie’s honesty stays with him even after the operation.

Before the operation, Charlie attended an adult night school to try to become smarter. Even when Charlie found out that he was going to deteriorate, he spent long hours trying to prevent it from happening. When the operation did indeed wear off completely he states in his last progress report that he is going to keep trying to get smart. Charlie isn’t only motivated but he is also determined and obedient. Charlie did whatever the doctors asked of him and he worked to his full ability even when it was hard to. His determination to become smart is one of the main reasons that the doctors decided to choose him.
One of the most important qualities that make up Charlie is his courageous and friendly attitude. When Charlie was asked if he wanted to receive the operation, he agrees to it without hesitation even though it might be temporary. He never has anything bad to say about people and sees the good in everyone. Even when he realizes that Joe Carp and Frank Reilly aren’t his friends he doesn 't choose to get revenge. When Algernon dies, Charlie mourns him and puts him in a cheese box, occasionally placing flowers on his grave.
In conclusion, Charlie’s characteristics make up who he is as a human being. He doesn’t let his disability affect him for striving to be smart or choosing to see the good in the world. Even after the operation he still retains his