Lecture Notes on Flowers for Algernon and Plato's Allegory of the Cave

Vocabulary flashcards for reviewing key themes and concepts from Flowers for Algernon and Plato's Allegory of the Cave.

The Tragic Cost of Knowledge

A theme in Flowers for Algernon where Charlie's quest for knowledge leads to enlightenment and suffering.

Nietzschean Undertones

The novel can be interpreted with these undertones, likening Charlie's quest for knowledge to Prometheus gaining intellectual 'fire'.

Intelligence as Isolation

Term for how extreme intellect, disconnected from emotional and social intelligence, can become a burden in "Flowers for Algernon."

Parallel to the Fall from Eden

Charlie's awakening to knowledge brings the loss of innocence and peace.

Human Dignity and the Limits of Science

A theme that critiques unchecked rationalism and utilitarianism in "Flowers for Algernon."

Kantian Ethics

This idea, aligned with Kant's philosophy, suggests humans should be treated as ends, not means.

Identity as Fluid and Constructed

A theme concerning Charlie’s self, that is not fixed but unstable and performative.

Temporal Self

Charlie exists across multiple selves revealing the fragility and multiplicity of identity.

Autonomy and Consciousness

Theme that explores whether self-awareness is truly liberating or merely brings pain and self-consciousness.

The Inescapability of Human Emotion

Despite intellectual gains, Charlie can't escape trauma or loss through reason because of the…

Emotional Illiteracy of Genius

Even with increased intelligence, Charlie lacks emotional maturity.

Plato’s Allegory of the Cave

A philosophical metaphor about knowledge, reality, and enlightenment.

The Cave

Represents the world of appearances and limited knowledge.

The Prisoners

Symbolize people unaware of true knowledge.

The Shadows

Represent illusions that prisoners take for truth.

Escape

Philosopher, breaks free from chains.

Ascent

Symbolizes education.

The Sun

Ultimate source of truth.

The Real World

The true reality, beyond appearances.

The Return

Freed prisoner shares his vision.

The Reaction

Other prisoners reject the freed one.

The True Nature of Reality

The world we perceive may not be the ultimate reality.

The Role of Education

Represents the transformative power of education.

The Philosopher's Role

Has a responsibility to share their vision of truth.