A Bit About Anthem by Ayn Rand

Brief overview of novella… Anthem is a work of dystopian fiction (dystopian is a word with Greek roots that refers to a society opposite of a utopia). It takes place in a future world in which society is governed by “collectivism” (a system similar to communism). The community has many rules with strict consequences and virtually no freedoms.

Plot Summary In Anthem, technological advancement is limited by government (known as The Council). The society of Anthem lives in a dark age in which technology like electricity has disappeared. Men and women are assigned jobs at birth and reproduction is managed by the state. The concept of individuality has been eliminated, and the word “I” has disappeared from the language. All individual names have been made numbers preceded by words “Equality” and “Union.”

The Council

Protagonist / Hero The protagonist in the story is Equality-72521. Equality stands out in a uniform and regulated society. He is exceptionally tall (6’1) and begins to question various aspects of his society. He becomes curious and starts to have independent thoughts.

Concepts in Anthem Rand a struggle between contrasting philosophies through the course of the novel. Rand refers to these philosophies in varied terms, including: Altruism – man exists to serve others and this self-sacrifice is the highest moral duty Egoism – man’s primary moral obligation is to achieve his own welfare and well-being. Collectivism – the subjugation of the individual to a group. Collectivism holds that man must be chained to a collective action and collective thought for the sake of the “common good.” Individualism – every man is an independent and sovereign entity who posses an inalienable right to his own life.