Charlie is the protagonist of Flowers for Algernon. The novel is told from his first-person point of view in the form of progress reports. The reader sees the full sweep of Charlie’s development as a character, from his initial vulnerability and motivation as a person with an intellectual disability, to a driven researcher facing extraordinary personal challenges, and finally to the tragedy of his decline. Charlie is honest and open. The novel’s form is vital to portraying Charlie’s character. Because the novel is comprised of Charlie’s reactions, thoughts, and impressions, readers see Charlie for who he is, as he is.

The progress reports show Charlie’s vulnerability and drive. His intellectual disability is the premise of the experimental procedure; overcoming it is a key motivator for Charlie. Charlie has to face his naïveté throughout the novel. In the early sections, Charlie has little understanding of or experience handling emotions, social relationships, or ethical dilemmas like Gimpy’s stealing from the bakery. As the novel progresses, Charlie’s intellectual development outraces his emotional growth. Being intellectually able leads to as many pitfalls as it does joy.