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Analysis Of The Dystopian Society In Anthem, By Ayn Rand

682 Words3 Pages

The novella, Anthem, by Ayn Rand is solely based on a dystopian society. The main character, Equality 7-2521, was born into a society where everyone was to think and look alike. “All expressions of individualism have been suppressed in the world of Anthem...” (aynrand.org) Individuals have absolutely no identity of their own in this society. In Equality’s society, the word “I” is completely banished from their vocabulary. Equality, along with his brothers, only speak in the first-person plural, we. Speaking the word “I” is forbidden and can lead to punishment. “We are one in all and all in one. There are no men but only the great WE, one, indivisible, and forever.” (Rand 8) Equality’s society has this motto, which proves that the only identity …show more content…

Compared to his brothers, Equality shows a difference physically. He is much taller than his brothers, about six feet, and has a very quick mind. “We are six feet tall, and this is a burden, for there are not many men who are six feet tall. Ever have the Teachers and the Leaders pointed to us and frowned and said: “There is evil in your bones, Equality 7-2521, for your body has grown beyond the bodies of your brothers.”” (Rand 5) Any form of difference, physical or mental, was not allowed in this dystopian society. As a student in school, Equality discovered he was smarter than everyone else. He tried to hide this superior intelligence, but did not succeed. Although Equality had no control over how is mind functioned and how he looked, these actions were still considered transgressions, or sins. There are many other reasons the council had for assigning Equality such a menial job. The leaders knew that Equality’s great intellect would lead to advancements in technology that were part of the “Unmentionable Times”, which they were not prepared for. “Equality 7-2521 always displayed a keen intellect and pride. Equality 7-2521 has ambitions to join the Council of Scholars. The Scholars, however, fear what Equality 7-2521 is capable of. To break his spirit and discourage his intellect, Equality is relegated to the menial position of street sweeper.” (gradesaver.com). A job as a

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