Subplot
Definition: a minor plot that relates in some way to the main plot
“Flowers for Algernon”
Main Conflict – Charlie v his intelligence
Minor Conflicts – Charlie v Factory Workers
Charlie v Algernon
Charlie v Miss Kinnian
Dr. Nemur v Dr. Strauss
*These minor conflicts are actually called subplots. The idea is that a reader can take any of these minor
conflicts and complete a plot diagram for it (exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and
resolution). These subplots add to the story and help in creating suspense.