Anthem, written by Ayn Rand, is a short novel with an interesting plot. Throughout the novel you’ll learn about the life changing journey of Equality 7-2521. The story takes place in the future where society is based on collectivism which relies heavily on groups. Our society today is based on individualism, which means individuals have their own rights. These two societies are very different, however they do share some similarities. Anthem’s society wants all men equal. In fact, it’s looked down upon to be different. Equality 7-2521 is very different from other men, he is even taller than the others. He believes this to be a burden and is told by his leaders, “There is evil in your bones Equality 7-2521, for your body has grown beyond the bodies of your brothers.” (Rand 18). On the other hand, our society wants everyone to be treated equal. Nevertheless being unique from everyone else is …show more content…
Even using the word “I” is a major crime, most people don’t even know that word exist. One man spoke this word, consequently he was publicly burned alive (Rand 50). So any words referring to yourself (my, I, mine, etc.) is replaced with its group form. On the contrary, our society is not like this at all. Almost everything we do and think is as an individual, and we aren’t punished for it. Speaking of punishments, when we give the death penalty it’s much more humane than burning someone alive! These two societies may seem like they have very little in common, but they do have some similarities. In Anthem’s society men and women have jobs to help benefit and maintain the community. Additionally they have a group of leaders referred to as “the Councils”. These leaders are responsible for the laws. Likewise, we have jobs. Except they’re usually for our individual benefit such as money and security. We also have leaders which are a part of the government, they too create and enforce