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Flowers for Algernon

by Daniel Keyes

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Student Question

Who is most concerned about operating on Charlie in Flowers for Algernon?

Quick answer:

Professor Nemur is most worried about using Charlie for the operation in Flowers for Algernon. While he recognizes that Charlie's motivation makes him a good candidate, he also worries that the operation will irrevocably alter Charlie's kind and eager-to-please personality. Dr. Strauss does not share these concerns.

Expert Answers

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In Progress Report 5, Charlie writes that his sister has given the doctors permission to perform the operation on Charlie. He is so excited that he "can hardley rite it down." However, the doctors begin discussing their final decision, and Charlie becomes aware that Professor Nemur has strong reservations about using Charlie.

Dr. Strauss comments that Charlie's motivation to learn makes him an ideal candidate, but Professor Nemur isn't so sure. Instead, the professor worries that Charlie could "get sick" from increasing his IQ to such high levels from his current state of mental challenges. Professor Nemur is worried that Charlie's kind nature will be transformed and insinuates that this operation should be performed on a person with low intelligence who is (stereotypically) hostile and uncooperative. He conveys to the doctor that most people of low intelligence are apathetic and difficult to "reach." Charlie is completely different and is eager to please the men; he has also initiated efforts in teaching himself how to read and learn.

Professor Nemur wants to protect Charlie because he has seemingly grown fond of Charlie's endearing personality. This is the first surgery of its kind, and no one knows what could happen to Charlie, the first patient. While Dr. Strauss sees Charlie as the ideal candidate for surgery and doesn't really worry about the risks they are inflicting upon their first patient, Professor Nemur worries for Charlie's well-being. Ironically, Charlie overhears this conversation and interprets this as Dr. Strauss being "on [his] side" and assumes that Professor Nemur isn't.

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