Requirements & Guidance

• Thesis: Formulate a clear, debatable assertion about what the novel ultimately conveys regarding intelligence and human value.
• Evidence: Use at least three specific scenes or passages from the novel, incorporating evidence from both Charlie's ascent and his descent.
• Literary Devices to Consider: Explore Keyes's use of narrative voice (the progress reports), dramatic irony, characterization (e.g., the scientists, factory workers, Alice), and symbolism (Algernon reflecting Charlie).
• Counterargument: Recognize and counter the perspective that Charlie's experiment was ultimately beneficial or that intelligence provided him with significant advantages.
• Conclusion: Consider the broader implications of the novel's message for how society treats individuals with intellectual disabilities.

In your essay, be sure to

Suggested length: 4–6 paragraphs (approximately 800–1,200 words)

• Develop a clear, defensible thesis that takes a position on the novel's main argument regarding intelligence and humanity.
• Use at least three specific pieces of textual evidence (e.g., progress reports, Charlie's changing relationships, the parallel of Algernon) to support your claim.
• Analyze how Keyes employs narrative structure and point of view (the progress report format and Charlie's changing language) to reinforce the novel's thematic concerns.
• Address a counterargument: consider the viewpoint that Charlie's increased intelligence does provide him with genuine, albeit temporary, value or joy.
• Conclude by reflecting on the broader ethical implications the novel raises about scientific experimentation and the definition of human dignity.

In your essay, ensure you:

• Analyze at least two to three specific moments in the text (such as Charlie's evolving relationships with Alice, his co-workers, or Dr. Strauss and Professor Nemur) that highlight the widening gap between Charlie's intellectual growth and his emotional/social maturity.
• Explore how Keyes employs narrative form — particularly through the progress reports and their changing language and tone — to strengthen this thematic argument.
• Address a counterargument: consider whether Charlie's pre-operative state was genuinely "happier" or more connected, and add nuance to your argument accordingly.
• Conclude by reflecting on what Keyes ultimately conveys about the ethics of "enhancing" a human being without considering their entire being.

Evaluation criteria

strength of thesis, use of textual evidence, analysis of narrative craft, and engagement with complexity.