Final answer:
Charlie's participation in the experiment is central to the unfolding of 'Flowers for Algernon,' propelling the plot forward as his intelligence increases and leading to both character development and plot advancement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Charlie's participation in the experiment is crucial to the plot of "Flowers for Algernon" as it catalyzes all subsequent actions in the story. When Charlie undergoes the experimental surgery to increase his intelligence, not only does his mental capacity change, but it also affects his relationships, self-awareness, and life experiences. This transformation provides the rising action of the story, leading to various climactic points as Charlie grapples with the moral and ethical implications of the experiment and its ephemeral nature. Charlie's development and first-person narration skillfully influence the reader to empathize with his situation.
As part of his intellectual growth, Charlie's perspective on the people and world around him shifts dramatically. He gains insight into his past and begins to understand the treatment he received from others when he had not been intelligent. This transition is indicative of the narrative's rising action, offering a poignant look into the character's inner turmoil. As Charlie's intelligence peaks, and we approach the story's climax, the experiment's impacts become increasingly profound.