Are you looking for a thought-provoking novel that challenges the status quo and celebrates the power of individualism? Look no further than “Anthem” by Ayn Rand. Set in a dystopian future, this book follows the journey of a young man named Equality 7-2521, as he discovers the joys of independent thought and the importance of personal freedom
Introduction
In “Anthem,” Ayn Rand presents a society where individuality is suppressed in favor of the collective. The government controls every aspect of people’s lives, from their professions to their relationships. The word “I” is forbidden, and people are only allowed to refer to themselves as “we.” The story follows the journey of Equality 7-2521, a young man who discovers a forbidden tunnel that leads him to a new world of individualism and freedom
Anthem Book About
Throughout the novel author illustrates the value of personal freedom and the need for individuals to think for themselves and pursue their own goals and desires. The book serves as a warning against the dangers of a society that suppresses individualism and the potential for tyranny that can arise from collectivist ideologies
Anthem Book Quotes
Anthem Book Characters
The main characters in Ayn Rand’s book “Anthem” are:
| Equality 7- 2521 | The protagonist of the story who initially conforms to the collectivist society but eventually rebels against it in pursuit of personal freedom |
| Liberty 5-3000 | The love interest of Equality 7-2521 who also desires personal freedom and individuality |
| The Councils | The ruling body of the collectivist society who enforce strict conformity and suppress individualism |
| The Scholars | Members of the society who are tasked with the acquisition and dissemination of knowledge but are limited by the government’s narrow definition of what constitutes knowledge |
Anthem Book Summary
“Anthem” is a dystopian novella written by Ayn Rand, published in 1938. The story is set in a collectivist society in which individualism has been eradicated, and everyone is expected to serve the greater good of the state. The protagonist, Equality 7-2521, is a young man who has always struggled with the rigid conformity of his society and yearns for personal freedom and independence.
Equality is a Street Sweeper by profession and is assigned to work with International 4-8818, a fellow street sweeper who becomes his close friend. One day, while working in a tunnel, Equality discovers an old subway tunnel that leads him to a hidden chamber. There, he discovers ancient manuscripts that detail the lost concept of individualism and personal freedom. He becomes obsessed with learning more about this forbidden knowledge and secretly studies them in his spare time.
Eventually, Equality falls in love with Liberty 5-3000, another member of his society who shares his desire for personal freedom and individuality. They secretly meet and express their love for each other, which is forbidden in their society.
However, when Equality’s discovery of the manuscripts is discovered by the Councils, he is punished and sentenced to death. With Liberty’s help, he escapes and flees into the wilderness beyond the city. There, they discover an old house from the Unmentionable Times and begin to rebuild their lives together, free from the tyranny of the collectivist society.
Key Takeaways of Anthem
Some key takeaways from Ayn Rand’s “Anthem” include:
| The book warns against the dangers of collectivist ideologies, which can lead to the suppression of individual rights and freedoms |
| The book highlights the importance of individualism and the need for people to have the freedom to pursue their own goals and desires |
| The book emphasizes the value of knowledge and education and how they can lead to personal growth and development |
| The book highlights the power of love and the importance of human connection |
If you love to read these type of novel then you should try : THE NIGHTINGALE BOOK SUMMARY
Anthem Book Author
Ayn Rand is the author of the book “Anthem”. She was a Russian-American writer and philosopher, born in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1905. Rand’s philosophy, called Objectivism, emphasizes the importance of reason, individualism, and laissez-faire capitalism. She is best known for her novels, including “The Fountainhead” and “Atlas Shrugged”, which have been influential in shaping modern libertarian and conservative ideologies
Anthem Book Genre
“Anthem” by Ayn Rand is a dystopian novella. The dystopian genre typically involves a dark, often oppressive society or world, usually in the future, where individual freedom and choice are restricted, and the government or ruling power has complete control. The genre often explores themes of rebellion, individualism, and the consequences of totalitarianism
Books Like Anthem
If you enjoyed Ayn Rand’s “Anthem” and are looking for similar books, here are some suggestions:
| “1984” by George Orwell | Link |
| “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley | Link |
| “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury | Link |
| “The Giver” by Lois Lowry | Link |
Anthem Book Review
“Anthem” is a thought-provoking and powerful critique of collectivism and a celebration of individualism. Rand’s writing is concise and impactful, and the novella serves as a great introduction to her philosophy of Objectivism
Anthem Book Price In India
“Anthem” is available on Amazon India . The Price of the Novel is 95/- The price may vary depending on the format (e.g. paperback, hardcover, Kindle edition)
Anthem Book Price In U.S
“Anthem” is also available on Amazon U.S . The Price of the Novel is $7.99 The price may vary depending on the format (e.g. paperback, hardcover, Kindle edition)
Anthem Audiobook
Audiobook of “Anthem” is available on Audible.in. The price of this version is $8.65 You can also find it on various audiobook platforms such as Google Play Books, and iTunes
Link of Audiobook : Anthem
Conclusion
“Anthem” is a classic dystopian novel that explores the consequences of a collectivist society where individuality is suppressed and conformity is enforced. The novel emphasizes the importance of freedom, the power of knowledge, and the dangers of totalitarianism. It features compelling characters and themes that are still relevant today. If you are a fan of dystopian fiction, “Anthem” is a must-read
FAQs
Is “Anthem” a good book to read?
Yes, “Anthem” is a classic dystopian novel that explores important themes and features compelling characters
What age group is “Anthem” appropriate for?
“Anthem” is suitable for readers aged 14 and above
Is “Anthem” a difficult book to read?
“Anthem” is not a difficult book to read, but it does contain some complex themes and ideas
Is “Anthem” relevant to modern-day society?
Yes, “Anthem” is still relevant today as it explores themes such as the suppression of individuality and the consequences of totalitarianism
What other books are similar to “Anthem”?
Other dystopian novels such as “1984” by George Orwell and “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley are similar to “Anthem”
What is the message of “Anthem”?
The message of “Anthem” is that individuality and freedom are essential to human happiness and that the government’s attempts to suppress them are ultimately futile