In the novel The Fountainhead, by Ayn Rand, the author develops the theme that individuals who are free to think on their own can make the greatest discoveries. This is a major underlying theme throughout the novel and is encapsulated in the characters of Howard Roark and his peers. Through Howard Roark’s unwavering belief in his individual autonomy, Rand illustrates that suppressed independent thinking can ultimately lead to the greatest discoveries and inventions.
The idea that independent thinking should be valued and free from external influence is encapsulated by the character of Howard Roark, who embodies this theme throughout the novel. Roark is uncompromising in his beliefs and refuses to bow to the demands of society, even when faced with adversity. This is seen in the novel when he chooses to burn down a housing project he had designed, rather than sacrifice his beliefs and bend to the demands of his employer. Here Rand advocates for the value of individualism and freedom of thought by emphasizing that this decision ultimately leads to a revolutionary discovery. In the following scene, Roark’s decision has paid off and his design is finally accepted, showcasing the value of independent thought and the potential for revolutionary concepts to arise from it.
Rand also includes an array of other characters in the novel to further illustrate how individual autonomy can lead to the greatest discoveries. Ellsworth Monkton Toohey, a major antagonist in the novel, is a prime example of a character who seeks to suppress the free thinking of individuals in order to further his own agenda. His character represents the dangers of external influences and how it can stunt the potential of men. On the other hand, characters like Dominique Francon and Peter Keating are prime examples of the consequences of succumbing to social pressures. They are unable to fully realize their potential and are ultimately unable to attain their own individual greatness due to their reliance on the opinions and ideals of society.
In conclusion, Ayn Rand uses The Fountainhead to illustrate her theme that deterministic obedience to socially accepted systems of thought can stifle individuals' potential and prevent them from making their greatest discoveries. Through the characters of Howard Roark, Ellsworth Monkton Toohey, Dominique Francon, and Peter Keating, Rand illustrates why individual autonomy and independent thinking should be valued, and that individuals who are allowed to think freely without outside influence have the potential to make the greatest discoveries.
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