The Theme Of Equality 7-2521 In Ayn Rand's Anthem

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Equality 7-2521 “An inventor is a man who asks ‘Why’ of the universe and lets nothing stand between the answer and his mind”( Ayn Rand). In the novel Anthem, by Ayn Rand, Equality 7-2521 is seen as an outcast compared to his brothers; different. Equality is the inventor, he questions the council and the world around him. When we take a closer look at the protagonist of the novel, Equality, we can see that he is intelligent, unique in his own way, adventurous, and curious. Some might say his curiosity is what drives him to to be the way he is and seek out the unknown. To most, these characteristics, proves Equality a prophet that stresses the idea of Equality for all. When Equality was younger he would always ask “Why”and want to learn more …show more content…

Unlike his brothers he is not afraid to speak his mind and stand up for what he believes in ,no matter the consequences. Liberty 5-3000 puts it best when they give him the nickname ‘The Unconquered’. This shows that they too know that nothing can conquer Equality, for he let's “ Nothing come between the answer and he mind”. Although it is forbidden Equality makes a friend, falls in love, and went into the Uncharted Forest. However Equality sees fear in the eyes of the street sweepers and everyone in the City, fear controls their actions and beliefs. Ayn writes “ There is a fear hanging in the air of the sleeping halls, and in the air of the streets. Fear walks through the City, fear without name , without shape. All men feel it and none dare to speak.”(Rand, 15). Equality sees it for what it is , wrong. And he is determined to do something about it and change the corrupt ways of the council. The council has permanently scarred them into thinking that if they do one thing wrong, make one mistake, they will be punished, often by death. Niccolo Machiavelli puts it best when he says “ It is better to be feared than …show more content…

As a result I can see that Equality may represent all humans or a representation of what all humans desire to be. Which is to be a person with a quick brain and curiosity that allows him to be fearless. For he also represents a prophet that strives to make the world equal for everyone. His life can relate to a tunnel full of darkness. Everyone is caved in by the council , sheltered from the outside world and kept in ignorance. However Equality seeks out the light at the end of the tunnel, the truth that was kept from him and everyone else there whole

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