Anthem

Individuality vs. Collectivism: In the world of Anthem, saying "I" is forbidden, and individuals are only referred to as "we." How does Equality 7-2521's gradual rediscovery of himself challenge the society around him? What does Rand imply about the connection between personal identity and collective control?

The Role of Language: Why do you think the ruling Council has eliminated the word "I"? How does language influence thought and power in this novella? Can you think of real-world examples where controlling language has been used to manipulate people?

Rebellion and Morality: Equality 7-2521 violates many laws of his society throughout the story. Do you think his acts of rebellion are morally justified? What standards would you use to determine when it is right — or wrong — to defy authority?

The Uncharted Forest: The forest symbolizes freedom and the unknown. What does Equality 7-2521 gain — and what does he risk — by deciding to escape into it? How does Rand use this setting to reinforce her themes?

Liberty and the "Golden One": How does the relationship between Equality 7-2521 and the Golden One change throughout the novella? What role does romantic love play in Rand's vision of individual freedom?

Connecting to Today: Anthem was written as a warning against totalitarianism. In what ways, if any, do you see reflections of this dystopian society in the contemporary world? Where do you observe the tension between individual rights and the demands of the group occurring today?

Identity & Individuality: In the collectivist society of Anthem, using the word "I" is forbidden. How does Equality 7-2521's journey to understand the self reflect a broader human desire for individual identity? What does Rand imply about what is lost when individuality is stifled?

Language & Power: The society in Anthem has done away with the first-person singular pronoun. How does language influence thought and identity in the novel? What does this indicate about the connection between language and political control?

Rebellion & Conformity: Equality 7-2521 repeatedly defies his society’s rules — through his secret experiments, his relationship with Liberty 5-3000, and his eventual escape. What drives his rebellion? Is he a hero, a criminal, or a mix of both? How does the society's response to his discoveries reveal its core values?

The Role of Technology & Progress: When Equality 7-2521 rediscovers electricity, the World Council dismisses it. What does this moment show about the society's attitude toward innovation and progress? What does Rand suggest about the link between personal freedom and human advancement?

The Meaning of the Title: The word anthem usually denotes a song of praise or loyalty. Who or what is being honored in this novella? How does the meaning of the title change from the beginning of the story to the end?

Utopia or Dystopia?: The society in Anthem presents itself as a utopia founded on equality and brotherhood. In what ways does Rand reveal its dystopian nature? Do you think any of the society's original aims were noble, or were they flawed from the outset?

Connections to Today: How do the themes of Anthem relate to current discussions about individualism, conformity, and government control? Do you find Rand's portrayal of collectivism as entirely negative convincing, or do you think it’s overly simplistic?