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Essay / Summary of Anthem by Ayn Rand
Anthem, written by Ayn Rand, is a gripping and thought-provoking dystopian novel set in a society where collectivism and equality are enforced to the extreme. The story is set in a future world where individuality is suppressed and the word "I" has been eradicated from the vocabulary. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The main character, Equality 7-2521, is a young man who yearns for intellectual freedom and the ability to think and 'act by himself. In this society, everyone is assigned a specific role and profession, and personal choice is non-existent. Equality, however, is different. He is curious, intelligent, and has a unique sense of individualism that sets him apart from his peers. While secretly experimenting with forbidden science, Equality rediscovers electricity and develops a new form of light. Excited by his discovery, he shares it with the World Council of Scientists, in the hope of contributing to the progress of his society. However, the council rejects his invention, judging his achievements useless and dangerous. Discouraged by the council's rejection, Equality decides to flee the city in search of a place where he can be free to explore his own potential. He takes with him the symbolic Golden One, a young woman he loves, and together they venture into uncharted territories beyond the city walls. As they travel through the wilderness, Equality and Golden One encounter remnants of the past, including the ruins of a fallen society. These vestiges further arouse their curiosity, leading them to question the merits of their own society and its oppressive ideals. Eventually, Equality and The Golden One stumble upon a house from the Unspeakable Times, a time when individuality was celebrated. In this house, they discover books and writings from the past that lay the foundation for their understanding of the value of individualism and the importance of personal choice. Armed with this new knowledge, Equality decides to share his discoveries with his fellow citizens in the hope of sparking a revolution. However, he quickly realizes that his society is not ready for change. Blindly adhering to their collective beliefs, his peers reject his ideas and he becomes an outcast. Undeterred, Equality retreated to a remote area, where he began documenting his experiences and ideas in a journal. Through this journal, he establishes his identity, celebrates his individuality, and perpetuates the idea that every individual has the right to pursue their own happiness. Anthem by Ayn Rand is a gripping story that explores the dangers of extreme collectivism and the meaning of individualism. Through the journey of Equality 7-2521, the novel challenges conventional societal norms and inspires readers to think about their own role in a society that favors conformity over personal autonomy. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized essay now from our expert writers.Get a Custom Essay Rand's powerful message reminds us that the suppression of individualism stifles human progress and innovation. It reminds us to embrace our unique qualities, exercise our intellectual freedoms, and strive for a society that values personal choice and individual achievement..