As Jaydn completed reading the story, we explored themes and allusions and discussed how the literary allusions convey the theme. I explained how to formulate a statement of theme, and we examined the author's messages: the evil of scientific manipulation of humanity and the relationship between happiness and intelligence. Jaydn participated in class discussion on these ideas as well as of the question " Is ignorance bliss?" Last, we explored Algernon as a symbol or representation of Charlie and how the author uses this symbol to foreshadow Charlie's tragic fate.