Your essay should:

• Present a clear, debatable thesis that takes a definitive stance on Rand's primary argument.
• Utilize textual evidence from Anthem (including Equality 7-2521's transformation, the symbolic use of language, and the World Council's role) to bolster your reasoning.
• Analyze how Rand employs literary and rhetorical devices — such as dystopian setting, first-person narration, and symbolism (light, the Unspeakable Word, the mirror) — to promote her philosophical message.
• Consider and address at least one counterargument to your position.

Pre-Writing Tip

Before you begin writing, reflect on: Is Rand's portrayal of individualism idealistic, realistic, or dangerous? What insights does the text provide about the relationship between self and society?

Write a well-organized essay arguing how effectively Rand's novella demonstrates that individualism is vital for human flourishing. In your essay, make sure to:

Your essay should articulate a clear, defensible thesis and maintain a consistent line of reasoning throughout.

• Examine how Rand employs narrative structure, characterization, and symbolism (such as the rediscovery of "I," light versus darkness imagery, and the significance of the Uncharted Forest) to build her main argument.
• Assess the strengths and weaknesses of Rand's ideological perspective as reflected in the text, taking into account what the novella supports and what it might oversimplify or overlook.
• Provide specific textual evidence to back your claims, including direct quotations and careful analysis of key passages.