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
Charlie
Charlie
Charlie
&
&
&
&
Algernon
Ms. Kinnian
his doctors
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 coworkers 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.