IndexIntroductionBackground InformationAnalysis of Character DevelopmentExploration of Ethical DilemmasExamination of ThemesLiterary Devices and Writing StyleImpact and Relevance of the NovelConclusionIntroductionThe novel "Flowers for Algernon", written by Daniel Keyes, explores questions about intelligence and identity through the story of Charlie Gordon. Gordon is a man with cognitive developmental delay who experiences cognitive surgery to become a genius; the novel provides a unique perspective on how human relationships are influenced by intelligence. This article seeks to show how Keyes' novel poses challenges to social ideals about intelligence and disability by analyzing the novel's characters, themes, ethical dilemmas, literary devices, and impact. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Background Information Set in 1960s New York, the novel is about Charlie, a mentally disabled man, selected for an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. The plot of the book follows Charlie's journey before and after the surgery. The novel evokes complex themes such as identity, empathy, and intelligence, while meditating on a person's changing perspectives and relationships. The author's purpose in writing this book was to reflect on the importance of empathy and understanding as individuals learn to relate to people with mental disorders. obstacles. Furthermore, Keyes draws attention to the implications of scientific advances in the field of cognitive study. Character Development AnalysisCharlie Gordon is the protagonist of the novel. At the beginning of the book, Charlie is a mentally disabled man, struggling to fit into society and struggling with feelings of inadequacy and inferiority caused by his learning difficulties. The surgery aims to improve his intelligence, which induces a profound change in Charlie's psyche, including his intellectual capacity, altering his social status and increasing his self-esteem. The change that the intervention induces significantly alters Charlie's emotional and cognitive development. However, it causes complications, such as abandonment by his loved ones and a return to his previous cognitive state at the end of the novel, leading to tragic implications. Exploring Ethical Dilemmas The experimental surgery leads to many ethical dilemmas that arise throughout the novel. An ethical dilemma, for example, is the effect of the procedure on people's lives, that is, on the life of the protagonist. The surgery initially increases Charlie's intelligence, leading to a transformation that impacts Charlie's entire life. The novel delves into the ethical implications of artificial intelligence enhancement, presenting the potential consequences of the impact of Charlie's enhanced intelligence on society. This increase in intelligence is not going as smoothly as hoped, and some drawbacks force readers to consider the costs of scientific progress. Examination of Themes The theme of intelligence runs throughout the book. Keyes presents intelligence as a coveted but double-edged sword, carrying substantial personal and social responsibilities. Furthermore, the theme of identity is a significant part of the novel, from Charlie's identity as a disabled person before surgery, to his transformation into a brilliant scholar, to his identity crisis when he returns to his original state. Empathy, another central theme in the book, is present in Charlie's social relationships and how this characteristic is influenced by his intelligence. Literary Tools and Writing Style Keyes uses literary tools such as, 2(2), 99-109.