42 pages 1 hour read

Ayn Rand

Anthem

Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1938

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Ayn Rand's dystopian novella Anthem, Equality 7-2521, a man living under an oppressive collectivist regime, chronicles his journey of self-discovery and freedom through his secret experiments in an abandoned tunnel and his relationship with Liberty 5-3000. Ultimately, he embraces his individuality, rejects the collectivist society, and vows to enlighten others about the virtue of egoism.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Ayn Rand's Anthem is often praised for its thought-provoking exploration of individualism and the human spirit against collectivist suppression. Critics commend its poetic prose and philosophical depth but note its didactic tone and one-dimensional characters. The novella's dystopian setting and stark narrative resonate with some readers, while others find its message overly simplistic.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Anthem?

Readers who appreciate dystopian literature and philosophical inquiries into individualism will enjoy Anthem by Ayn Rand. Similar to George Orwell's 1984 and Aldous Huxley's Brave New World, this novella appeals to fans of speculative fiction that critiques collectivism and explores the triumph of the human spirit.

RecommendedReading Age

14-18years

Book Details

Genre

Science-Fiction / Dystopian Fiction

Classic Fiction

Psychological Fiction

Topics

Philosophy

Themes

Values/Ideas: Good & Evil

Values/Ideas: Equality

Society: Politics & Government