In order for a man to have meaning in his life, he must face and overcome many conflicts. Those who do not face these struggles are unable to realize what they are capable of. In Ayn Rand's novel Anthem, the main character Equality 7-2521 battles internal and external conflicts in order to discover his individuality.
             Equality 7-2521 struggles with many internal conflicts that help him discover his true self. For example, because Equality prefers some work and lessons to others and wishes to become a scholar because he loves the Science of Things, he is "guilty of the great Transgression of Preference" (22). Equality realizes he is different from others, but is scared to be because of the consequences he must face. His desires have no meaning due to his society's strict lifestyle, and limited opportunities. In addition, after Equality goes to the Home of Scholars to tell the about the discovery of the light, the council chases him into the Uncharted Forest, and he "think[s] of the Golden One, [who he shall] never see again" (72). Equality cannot hold his strong thoughts of the Golden One appear in his mind. Equality's differences make him a strong individual who is ready for any challenge.
             Equality 7-2521's society causes him to go through many external conflicts that destroy his spirit, but strengthen his mind. For example, because Equality is so interested in the way things work, "he ask[s] so many questions that the Teachers [forbid] it" (23). The teachers are petrified of Equality because they do not have the answers to his questions. The teachers know that Equality is smarter than they are, so they try to keep him at their level. In addition, after Equality refuses to tell of his whereabouts after going to the tunnel, the oldest judge that they "lash [him] until [he] tell[s]" (64). The judges are scared that Equality will find some hidden fact that the judges do not want to be discovered. The...