Subplot & Parallel Episode Ms. Natividad

Definitions Subplot –A minor plot that relates in some way to the major story. Parallel Episode –The repetition of certain elements or events in the plot.

Subplot There are four subplots within Flowers for Algernon: –Charlie & Algernon –Charlie & Ms. Kinnian –Charlie & his doctors –Charlie & his co-workers and/or friends Within each subplot is the potential for a parallel episode…

Parallel Episodes Charlie races Algernon –Charlie loses the “amazes” –Charlie wins the last race = shift (or change) in parallel episode Charlie parties with co-workers –Charlie becomes drunk; co-workers laugh and play jokes on him –Charlie is tricked into drinking; realizes his co- workers are not friends

Parallel Episodes Charlie and the doctors –Charlie takes “Raw shok” tests. Prior to surgery - thinks they’re fun, but becomes frustrated when he can’t find the hidden pictures Post-surgery - Charlie is afraid at first because he feels doctors are trying to trick him, but is pleased when he imagines bats tugging and sword fighting. Parallel episodes DO NOT have to be identical; the outcomes can differ.